FW: [RDOWS] WATERLOO, IA: Council plans work session on dog

http://www.wcfcourier.com/articles/2008/01/20/news/breaking_news/doc47935d048cc12470501634.txt

Sunday, January 20, 2008 8:39 AM CST
Council plans work session on dog rules
By TIM JAMISON, Courier Staff Writer
WATERLOO --- City Council members are expected to begin discussions this week on ways to strengthen Waterloo's animal control regulations related to dangerous dogs.

A council work session is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, before the regular meeting, to review potential changes to the current "dangerous dogs" ordinance and possible new language putting tighter restrictions on "potentially dangerous breeds."

While council members typically do not accept public comments during work sessions, any ordinance changes would need to be adopted at a formal council meeting in the future.

The review comes on the heels of two publicized instances when pit bull terriers entered private property and attacked other dogs. In one case, dog owner Russ Folkers sued the city in federal court over the language in the existing dangerous dog ordinance.

Under potential changes prepared by the city attorney's office, the city would no longer allow the owner of a dog deemed dangerous to keep the dog at home pending an appeal hearing; provides more details on what animal control officers can use as evidence in declaring a dog dangerous; and requires the owner of a dangerous dog to pay all shelter and boarding fees for the animal.

The ordinance would require animal control officers to seize the dog upon writing a "dangerous dog" citation. Dogs deemed dangerous can be removed from the city or destroyed; but owners planning to remove the dogs must provide information on where it will be relocated. Dogs found back in the city after supposedly being removed will be destroyed immediately.

Another potential ordinance would outline a list of potentially dangerous dog breeds. Residents keeping such breeds would need an extra registration, which would detail their ability to confine the animal adequately and require proof of insurance covering damage the dog may cause. Such dogs would also need a permanent registration affixed to their body through microchip implants, tattoos or other methods.

The full meeting is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Tuesday in the council chambers on the second floor of City Hall. Committee meetings, held before the regular meeting, include: Building and Grounds, 4:50 p.m.; Public Works, 4:55 p.m.; and Finance, 5 p.m.

Contact Tim Jamison at (319) 291-1577 or tim.jamison@wcfcourier.com.
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