The City of Union appears to be closer to having a dangerous dog ordinance on the books.
The item first appeared on the Aldermen’s agenda in June and after some revisions by City Attorney Doug Smith, Mayor Wayne Welch asked the five board members to review the new document and possibly come to a decision,
“I sure would like to adopt it at the next board meeting,” said Welch.
The measure which they reviewed last week at their July meeting, defines a dangerous dog as one which has a propensity or history to bite, attack or injure people.
It requires the owners to maintain the animal in an enclosure allowing adequate freedom of movement and specifically does not allow the dog to be tied.
The new ordinance would allow the representatives of the City to enter the premises for the purpose of inspection and allows for the impoundment of any dog not properly cared for or restrained from threatening the public.
If adopted, the ordinance would impose a $100 impoundment charge and a $25 per day fee for time in holding.
In other action, the Aldermen:
• Reviewed three scheduled hearings on unkempt property:
• Joseph Morris, 104 Portis St., suspended and cancelled.
• Robert Daniels/Melba Acton, 418 S. Decatur St., granted a second consecutive 30-day extension.
• Ruth Maiden/Cynthia Stewart, 105 Union St., continued for 30 Days.
• Voted a $250 appropriation to the Care Lodge of Meridian. Welch endorsed the proposal noting that the facility gives shelter and care to abused and battered women and added, “There are times when we have people here that they have helped,” said the Mayor.
• Appropriated $75 for an advertisement in the Union High School football program.
