04/04/2011 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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WS — Item 7 WORK SESSION STAFF REPORT Work Session Item No. 7 Date: April 4, 2011 To: City Council From: Kent Strege Re: Animal Ordinance — Dangerous Dogs Background The city attorney has reviewed the city's regulations regarding animal control, Section 503 of the City Code, and specifically the regulations pertaining to dangerous animals. He has recommended changes that would streamline, clarify and provide the ability to charge for related services. The updated ordinance reflects the following: Updated definitions of Dangerous and Potentially Dangerous Animal Definition of a proper enclosure, whether it is outdoors or inside Clarifies the definition of unprovoked Lists the steps for declaring an animal as potentially dangerous or as a dangerous animal and the actions that may be taken if the declaration is made, and if the animal owner wishes to dispute the designation The process for dispute of the designation is handled by a hearing officer rather than the city council. Associated costs incurred by the city can be charged against the owner The appeal of the ruling by a hearing officer is to be presented to the Court of Appeals These changes will remove unclear language and insert more specific terms that are consistent with legal standards. The process to designate and dispute the designation of a dangerous or potentially dangerous animal will lie with a hearing officer designated by the city council rather than with the city council itself. The appeal of the hearing officer's designation is then sent to the legal system, specifically the Court of Appeals which is consistent with current standards. The changes in the ordinance also allow the city to recoup some of the expenses incurred by the city in process these issues. Requested Council Direction Discussion and direction on the implementation of the proposed changes to the Animal Control Regulations as they apply to the dangerous and potentially dangerous issue. Attachments Chapter 503, Animal Control Regulations, with proposed changes (new language is underlined; language to be removed is indicated with a strikethrough)