2000-08-23 Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Officer Parks explained he received a call on June 18, 2000, that the dogs were • swimming in a nearby pond. He indicated he whistled at the dogs and both came running towards him and that he did not feel threatened. Officer Parks stated he made his way to the front door as the dogs walked closely together to the front door. He indicated this was a sign of the "pack" mentality in dogs of this breed. Officer Parks stated the dogs were friendly to him while he was in the home but noted the temporary fencing for the pets was poorly constructed, as the wiring was bent and had holes. He indicated the dogs did leave the home while he was there and approached a jogger. Officer Parks noted Ms. Salazar called the dogs and stated both carne running back to the home. Ms. Salazar noted her dogs have completed obedience training and should not be viewed as a potentially dangerous. Chief Heckman stated this may be the case, but Council still has the final determination as to how the animal is treated for the safety of the public. Mayor Wilharber asked if the City were to declare both dogs ( Nakita and Dakota) were potentially dangerous, would they retain this designation their entire lives. Mr. Hoeft stated this was the case. Mayor Wilharber asked if the City was not to declare both dogs (Nakita and Dakota) potentially dangerous, would the City be liable for future incidents. Mr. Hoeft stated if the behavior of the animals is found to be potentially dangerous and the Council disregards the incidents the City would be liable. Council needs to take into consideration public safety. Council Member Nelson questions whether a decisions needed to be made at this time or subsequent to the public hearing. Mr. Hoeft stated Council would not make a decision until after the public hearing was closed. Ray DeVine, 1837 Revoir, noted the owners have taken good care of the animals since the incident. He stated both parties have a valid concern and stated he felt this would be a difficult decision for the Council to make. Council Member Nelson asked if Dakota's shots were up to date. Ms. Salazar stated they were. Mr. March asked if the neighbors would feel comfortable with the six -foot fence or if this would still be unacceptable. Mr. Brainard stated he felt both dogs were potentially dangerous due to the fact they travel in a "pack ". He added he felt a six -foot fence may not be enough to contain the animals as German Shepherd's could jump a six -foot fence if provoked. Mr. DeVine stated he would also be in favor of the six -foot fence for the safety of the children in the area. 3