There wasn’t a whole lot of business conducted at last week’s June meeting of the Union Board of Aldermen.
It was primarily a discussion of several issues.
The Aldermen considered a dangerous dog ordinance prepared by City Attorney Doug Smith. The proposal labels dogs as dangerous if they attack, bite, or injure people.
There are exemptions for police dogs and dogs protecting their owner’s property or their owner/handler.
It would require that dangerous dogs be securely and humanely confined and provides the Mayor or his representative to inspect for compliance.
The ordinance, if adopted, would impose a fine of up to $500 and a jail term not to exceed 10 days for violations. And, it also would authorize the City to destroy a dangerous dog running loose.
After some discussion about possibly housing some apprehended canines, and charging the owner with their upkeep, the Board tasked Smith with adding that additional language before considering adopting the ordinance.
In other action:
• Police Chief Billy Pat Walker told the Board that former police office Barry Smith has offered to do volunteer work as an officer when the department is shorthanded.
Walker said Smith, who is currently retired, still has his officer certification. “When we have people sick or absent because of school and training, he will be a big help to us,” said Walker.
• Three scheduled hearings concerning unkempt property were all continued until the July 2nd meeting.
The owners and property under discussion are: Joseph Morris, 104 Portis St.; Melba Acton-Robert Daniels, 418 South Decatur St.; and Ruth Maiden-Cynthia Stuart, 105 Union St.
