BC 1992 06 15 - Laserfiche WebLink

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593 wished to speak for or against the proposed road name change. There was no one present to address the Board, and Chairman Carpenter closed the public hearing. UPON MOTION of Commissioner Barnhart, seconded by Chairman Carpenter and unanimously carried, the Board approved the road name change (Petition 91- 92/03) from Unnamed Road to Manteo Drive. At 8:05 P.M., Chairman Carpenter opened the public hearing regarding the proposed Animal Control Ordinance for Cabarrus County. She announced that speakers would be limited to three minutes. Mr. Steve Smith endorsed the proposed Animal Control Ordinance. Citing news articles regarding children who had been attacked by dogs, Mr. Smith stated in his opinion it is the responsibility of adults to protect the children. His ten-year old daughter, Kelli, related events of the day she was attacked by a dog while playing in the yard. She asked that the ordinance be passed to prevent such an attack on another child. Mr. Steven Wallis, speaking on behalf of the North Carolina Confederation of Dog Clubs and the American Kennel Club, stated the Clubs support reasonable, enforceable and non-discriminatory laws and believe that owners should be responsible for their dogs. However, he objected to the definition of "vicious" dogs, the use of size as a determinant for a "vicious" dog, and the classification of the specific breeds of pit bull, Rotteweiler and Chow as "vicious" dogs. Chairman Carpenter asked for a show of hands of those present who were for or against the proposed ordinance. A majority of those present indicated opposition to the proposed ordinance. Mr. Ken Olio-Mills objected to the proposed ordinance. He stated the ordinance unfairly stereotyped specific breeds, was too lengthy, would lead to the creation of another county department, and would not be enforceable. Ms. Marilyn Barnhart supported the adoption of a strict Animal Control Ordinance. Stating there was a serious problem with dogs running loose, she expressed concern for the safety of the children in her community. Ms. Barnhart stated she expected the citizens to take care of their animals. Ms. Margaret Haggerty, resident of 425 Crestside Drive and athlete, complained that dogs attacked her while she runs on public streets in Cabarrus County. She stated that as a citizen she has the right to be safe. Mr. Dennis Ritchie supported the comments by Mr. Wallace. He specifically objected to the classification of specific breeds as "vicious" dogs. .Mr. Rodney Holbrooks of Kannapolis objected to the following provisions of the proposed ordinance: the definition of "vicious" dog, the classification of specific breeds as "vicious" dogs, the requirement that "vicious" dogs be muzzled, the provision whereby a veterinarian would exempt a dog from the "vicious" classification and assume responsibility for actions of that animal, and the requirement for public liability insurance in the amount of $100,000.00 for a dog classified as "vicious". He stated in his opinion the proposed ordinance was too restrictive on the responsible dog owners. Mr. Duard Murphy of Barnette Road opposed any new tax or regulation which would take more money from the residents of the county. He favored a direct vote of the people on the proposed ordinance and stated the licensing would have a negative impact on his sale of beagle dogs. Ms. Virginia Marzean of 8081 Altacrest Drive spoke in support of some type of Animal Control Ordinance. She cited problems with dogs and cats running loose in her neighborhood and stated in her opinion owners should be responsible for their pets. In conclusion, she questioned the enforcement of the ordinance if it is adopted. Ms. Barbara Burrage, spokesperson for the Cabarrus Kennel Club (CKC), presented the Club's views on the proposed Animal Control Ordinance. The Club supported responsible pet ownership and the establishment of a County spay/neuter clinic. The Club opposed the classification of specific breeds as "vicious" and believed that a dog should be defined as dangerous by its actions, not its parentage. In conclusion, the Club requested clarification regarding the fees imposed upon professional exhibitors/breeders. Ms. Jamie Lynch, administrative intern with the Health Department, told of her work with the Animal Shelter and described the large volume of complaints received by the Shelter. She stated that unwanted dogs are a large problem in Cabarrus County and supported a spay/neuter ordinance as well as an education program to teach citizens how to be responsible pet owners. Stating concerns about the high number of dog bites and the safety of the animal control officers, she advocated the carrying of firearms by the officers.