03-12-2007 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING Monday, February 26, 2007 7:00 o’clock p.m. _____________________________________________________________________________________ PAGE 8 (Kennel License – Runkle, Continued) Carol Hedblom, 2601 Casco Point Road, stated she can attest to the fact that she has witnessed the Runkles walking the dogs on a leash and that the dogs are well-mannered. Hedblom commented that her dog has probably barked more than the Runkles’ dogs. Joan Marquardt, 2617 Casco Point Road, stated she personally does not like dogs but that the Runkles’ dogs have not been a nuisance. Julianne Scherven, 2649 Casco Point Road, stated she has resided in this area for approximately 22 years and that her dog also barked more than what the Runkles’ dogs do. Scherven requested the City Council approve the kennel license. Steve Peterson, 2745 Casco Point Road, stated he has resided in this area for 22 years and that the Runkles are model dog owners. Peterson stated he would fully recommend the renewal of their dog kennel license. Runkle stated the issue may be that the neighbor who has complained just does not like them and that they have taken steps to try to minimize any noise made by the dogs. White inquired what steps the Runkles have taken. Runkle stated they no longer have all the dogs out at the same time and that they basically try to schedule kennel time for each particular dog one at a time and that he stays in the house more often to monitor the dogs. McMillan inquired whether the dogs should be outdoors more often. Runkle stated the dogs would prefer to be outdoors during the day and that the cold weather helps to make the dogs’ coats grow longer. Runkle stated he has always kept the dogs inside at nighttime. McMillan inquired whether the yard is fenced. Runkle stated the yard is not fenced and that the dogs are exercised on leash. Mrs. Runkle stated they also have 6 by 12 runs for the dogs. Runkle stated they also take their dogs to the dog park in Minnetrista. Murphy noted he met the Runkles’ dogs last week and that it is obvious the dogs are very well cared for and loved. Murphy stated he understands that dogs bark occasionally but that this is an issue the City Council should discuss. Murphy noted the City’s code says it is unlawful for any person to own, harbor, keep or house three or more dogs or five or more cats who are over six months of age on any one property without a valid residential or commercial kennel license. It is unlawful for any person to Item #02 - CC Agenda - 03-12-07 Approval of Council Minutes 02-26-07 [Page 8 of 11]