HomeMy WebLinkAboutEmergency Services Committee Minutes 07.24.2006 MINUTES
EMERGENCY SERVICES COMMITTEE
JULY 24, 2006
5:30 P.M.
Members Present:
Doug Poehls
Norm Stamper
Others Present:
Rick Musson
Monte and Terri Cherry
There was not a quorum present at the meeting. Doug Poehls stated there was one item
on the agenda for discussion. Monte and Terry Cherry were present concerning the city
dog ordinance. Doug handed out copies for reviewing of Laurel's city ordinance for
animals along with a copy of the city ordinance he received from Helena. He had
received a couple more that were available if anyone wanted to see them.
The first item of concern was the impound fees. The city does not have proper facilities
for holding a dog and therefore has not charged a fee. The city attempts to notify the
owner; if there is no success then the dog is transported to the Billings Animal Shelter.
The shelter does charge an impound fee when an owner picks up their dog. Billings has
not charged Laurel for using their services.
The ordinance says an owner must redeem the impounded animal within five days after
the giving of notice, or it shall be subject to disposal. Laurel usually takes the animal to
Billings within a couple days and Billings holds an animal for three days before it is
given away as a homeless pet or disposed of.
It was discussed that an owner needs to take more responsibility for their dogs that are
vicious or a nuisance. Monte Cherry had been bitten on the hand from a pit bull that
entered his yard and was vicious. He pointed out that the ordinance states such an animal
is not seized until there is a third conviction, however, they continue to be a danger. This
particular dog that attacked him has been seen out wandering around even though the
owner was asked to keep it confined to the house. The owners of this dog have had other
dogs of this breed. Terry Cherry mentioned dogs that are purebreds as pit bulls, be
required by city ordinance to be licensed by a trainer showing they have had obedience
training.
Doug said mom ideas and discussion would be heard at the next meeting.
Respectfully submitted,
Neva Hall
Secretary