06-26-84 Informal Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

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Page 2 , Informal Meeting of the Common Council Carolyn Pfotenhauer noted that she had sent a letter to President Beck dated March 6 , 1984 which outlined several areas of concern. These included licensing, enforcement problems , bite cases , and several other matters. She also noted that code enforcement follows up on checking for licensing. She noted the procedure used in Traffic and Misdemeanor Court for ordinance violations. Teresa Sukup noted that in 1983 the City licensed approximately 300 dogs. The Humane Society adopted out approximately 1 ,500 animals that same year. All of them received a temporary release allowing the owner to get the animal vaccinated and to procure a license within five (5) days . ; Councilman Beck suggested door to door licensing procedures but others noted that the cost would be prohibited. She also recommended that the rabies aspect be separated from the licensing aspect if at all possible. Councilman Puzzello suggested looking into a mass production of issuing rabies shots similar to the procedure used for immunizing children against polio . Councilman Braboy voiced concern about lack of enforcement and harrassment of persons who do voice complaints. Mrs. Pfotenhauer and Mrs . Farrand both stressed the need for taking into consideration the public health and safety concerns of the citizens and the animals when legislating in this area. Councilman Beck noted that we can control barking cases through the noise control ordinance and that greater' public awareness and cooperation between the police department was needed. It was suggested that an educational program for owners be suggested for those who violate the animal control ordinances . In this way hopefully the owners would become more responsible. It was also suggested that a draft ordinance addressing vicious animals , wild animals and specific enforcement procedures be drafted by the legal department no later than mid-August . It was also suggested that the Council Attorney review the licensing provisions specifically addressing both dogs and cats , changing the time when licenses are required, and to see if the rabies aspect can be separated from the licensing. It was noted that the City of Elkhart uses a post-card licensing application. Council President Beck suggested a "pooper-scooper"provision and a property damage provision. Council President thanked everyone in attendance for coming and requested them to send in any other suggestions they might have. The meeting was adjourned at 4 : 25 p.m. Respectfully submitted , Beverlie J. Beck, President