Village of 亚洲天堂 Lake will host a townhall meeting to discuss rising concerns about dogs and stray animals in the vicinty.
Council directed staff to set up the townhall after recent complaints about animals, particularly dogs, roaming freely within the boundaries of the Village of 亚洲天堂 Lake led council to reevaluate local animal control measures during the Sept. 10 council meeting.
As discussions continue, the Village of 亚洲天堂 Lake is seeking community input and support to effectively tackle the challenges posed by animals at large.
The animals, often observed near William Konkin Elementary School, are in violation of current bylaws and have led to community concerns over public safety and nuisance issues, staff noted in its report.
In April 2024, routine patrols were initiated by the Village Bylaw Office following reports from the elementary school. The patrols, conducted during key times of the school day, revealed that many of the dogs lacked proper identification, suggesting they were unlicensed. While some dogs were removed or shooed away, these measures were deemed insufficient by school staff, who highlighted limitations on the enforcement capabilities of their staff.
The Village is now facing the need for a more robust animal control program. Staff suggested a program that would address not only the immediate concerns of animals at large but also provide comprehensive solutions for the long term. Financial projections estimate that an expanded animal control initiative would require approximately $31,500 for equipment and facility upgrades, with annual operating costs around $34,600.
Key components of the proposed program include implementing stricter penalties for non-compliance and improving the enforcement of existing bylaws. Expanding animal control infrastructure by upgrading the current kennel to accommodate more animals and establishing better facilities for long-term care.
Another aspect of the program would look at increasing community awareness and involvement to address the root causes of the issue.
A proposed upgrade would include acquiring additional dog handling equipment and expanding kennel facilities from four to eight spaces, complete with exercise areas. The Village may also need to hire additional staff or consider contracting out these services, which would involve further financial outlays.
