Something I Read Somewhere

I read this in Express (the free commuter newspaper handed out at train station entrances) this morning:

A San Diego judge has ordered the seals out of the pool. The judge on Monday gave the city 72 hours to begin getting rid of harbor seals that have invaded an artificial cove at La Jolla Beach called the Children's Pool or face heavy fines. City officials say they plan this week to scare off the seals by broadcasting barking dog sounds. The plan could cost the city $700,000.

My first reaction: What!? It costs $700,000 to play a CD with dog sounds on it?

My second reaction: In what way is a judge qualified to place a strict time limit on the removal of wild animals that weigh 300 pounds?