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Health and Public Safety Committee March 26, 1996 Page 2 "free ride home program"and has located no other community who has such a program in effect. She stated that she believes it would only cause additional administrative problems and would be more expensive to the City in the long rum. Dr.Ecker noted that Mishawaka does not fine the first time an animal is found at large. She also noted that Mishawaka does microchip. Mary Wadsworth stressed the danger of driving and trying to avoid an accident when animals at large are involved. She also noted the dangers to bikers and walkers. She also stated that microchipping should be done automatically and not delayed for a six (6) month period. She believes the City's proposed program would be an administrative headache and would be more costly with regard to follow up measures required to be taken. Council Member Washington questioned whether a separate category could be created addressing animals found at large three(3)times. Council Member Broden stated that based on his experience of enforcement,that he does not believe that fines work. Council Member Varner stated that he would defer to Dr. Ecker with regard to the dangerous conditions posed by animals at large. He appreciates the example raised by Council Member Luecke but believes a proper designation is necessary based on public safety. Council Member Zakrzewski stated that he agrees that the "label" of dangerous animal is not appropriate and would support another category. Dr. Ecker suggested that perhaps animals found three (3) times at large could be determined to be a public nuisance. Council Member Pfeifer suggested that perhaps such animals should be labeled "neglected animal". Jackie Wrolorski noted that often times dogs at large which are known within the residential neighborhood are really part of a"neighborhood war". She stated that the Code Enforcement Department will welcome the three(3)times at large rule,which will address many of these ongoing neighborhood problems. She noted that the most expensive cost of any animal control program is the staff, officers and vehicles. The City's proposed program regarding the"free ride home"she believes would only add to the City's costs. Council.Member Washington voiced concern regrading that micro-chipping was not required at time of adoption, and also regarding the "free ride home program". Council Members Washington and Varner urged the Administration to resolve these concerns. Council Member Coleman also stressed the need to track the City's program with regard to quality of service and cost. Following further discussion. Council Member Zakrzrewski made a motion, seconded by Council Member Broden that Substitute Bill'No. 2-96 with an amendment addressing Council Member Broden's concern regarding additional language specifically stating who makes the at large finding and who maintains the necessary documentation,be recommended favorably to Council. The motion passed 3-0 with one abstention.