Clark County commissioners appear ready to approve two minor changes to county code related to dog kennel operations in residential zones.
But as they tinkered with the rules during a public hearing, they made so many alterations to the code that county attorneys said they would have to re-notice the hearing for final approval.
The original changes discussed at Tuesday’s hearing were to use state regulations for noise to police sound violations at kennels within the county, and to require a caretaker to remain onsite at kennels in residential areas.
The additional changes commissioners decided upon strike language that defines county noise standards, further requires the owner of the kennel to live on the property if it exists in a residential zone, and completely removes language related to commercial kennels in urban areas.
o Previously: Commissioner Tom Mielke noted at Tuesday's hearing that the board has been working to refine kennel law for 10 years. Over the past year, the discussion has largely been on how to mitigate noise from barking dogs at kennels.
o What's new: Commissioners have tentatively approved changes that put kennels in line with state law for noise.
o What's next: Commissioners must look at a final draft of the ordinance. They have yet to set a date for that hearing.
Four individuals spoke on the matter at Tuesday’s public hearing.
Joeri Goedertier, a county kennel owner, testified briefly, saying he supported following state law for sound issues.
o Previously: Commissioner Tom Mielke noted at Tuesday’s hearing that the board has been working to refine kennel law for 10 years. Over the past year, the discussion has largely been on how to mitigate noise from barking dogs at kennels.
o What’s new: Commissioners have tentatively approved changes that put kennels in line with state law for noise.
o What’s next: Commissioners must look at a final draft of the ordinance. They have yet to set a date for that hearing.
‘I need some relief’
The remaining three asked commissioners to consider stricter changes to the rules. Alita Beck brought in a recording of barking dogs and told commissioners the noise makes living on her property difficult.
“This is why I haven’t had my windows open for 10 years,” she said. “I’ve put up with this for 10 years, sirs, and I need some relief. Please.”
Commissioners have each made comments in the past that they are working to balance everyone’s property rights in changing kennel code.
On Tuesday, Commissioner David Madore repeated that principle.
“(We) want to make sure owners of property can use their property,” Madore said. “That’s what we’re trying to protect.”
Commissioners tentatively approved the new rules, along with the amendments, but a final document will return to them for final approval.
The date for that hearing has yet to be set.
