Agenda - 09-22-2008 - 2 - Laserfiche WebLink

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3 ordinance, tethering will be outlawed with several exceptions. The exceptions include "lawful dog activities," "shepherding'or herding livestock," "meeting the requirements of a camping or recreational area," and situations in which a caretaker is outside and within eyesight of a tethered dog. In addition, the Durham ordinance also establishes space requirements for outdoor enclosures. Pen space for a dog less than 20 pounds must be a minimum of 100 unobstructed square feet, and for dogs more than 20 pounds, it must be a minimum of 200 unobstructed square feet. Between now and the implementation of the ordinance at the beginning of 2010 there will be a coordinated campaign for public outreach and education. Also, only warnings will be issued for the first six months after implementation; citations will not be issued until July 1, 2010. Durham Commissioners voted 4 to 1 in favor of the amendment. Those in favor indicated the amendment was justified for humane reasons and because the prohibition of tethering would improve community life in a variety of ways such as curbing barking and reducing dog bites. The Commissioner who voted against the amendment questioned whether tethering had been demonstrated to be a problem and also expressed concerns there were no provisions to help low-income pet owners build alternative enclosures. On August, 25th, 2008, the Durham County Board of Commissioners held a public hearing on the proposed amendment following its introduction at an earlier Work Session. More than seventy-five citizens spoke and reports indicate that an overwhelming majority spoke in favor of the amendment. The proposed amendment was formulated by Durham County's Animal Control Advisory Board in coordination with the County's Animal Control Program. FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no direct cost associated with the review and consideration of the proposed ordinance amendment. The costs of administering and enforcing the new tethering provisions, if enacted, are believed to be readily absorbed within the Animal Services departmental budget and staffing complement. This expectation is based upon discussions with animal control authorities in other jurisdictions with similar tethering regulations and the belief that effective public relations and outreach can facilitate a transition in standards of animal care. Costs will be incurred during the twelve-month period of public education and outreach. Staff expects that the total costs will not exceed $1,500, and these monies will largely be used for display advertisements. RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board discuss the proposed ordinance amendment on the tethering of dogs and identify the necessary follow-up to facilitate its decision-making process.