Protection and Welfare Committee

Protection & Welfare Committee Meeting Minutes March 20, 2018 Chairman Rosek called the meeting to order at 6:58 PM. Members Present: Aldermen Rosek, Schmidt and Shaw Staff Present: Mayor Nold, Kitsembel, Steinbach, Freber, Pickart, Sullivan, Gallo, Kelliher, Buerger, Duffy, Osborn, Frye and Coenen Others Present: Alds. Zwart, Kowieski, Ellis, Miller and Strey 2. Discussion Regarding Municipal Code §12.03(7A) Wild or Vicious Animals: Buerger stated this item is being brought forward at the request of Ald. Ellis. He reported on the history of the code that was adopted in 2002 as a result of a property owner having a wolf-dog hybrid that broke its chain and attacked a dog being walked by a 14 year old child. Citizens expressed concern which resulted in the creation of the ordinance. Additionally, pit bulls were also considered vicious and our code cites they must be muzzled when walked. The Committee asked if there have been problems in the City with pit bulls and Buerger stated a few over the years as well as other breeds of dogs. Ellis then addressed the Committee stating he feels our code is excessive on pit bull restrictions and read information he had gathered on vicious breeds of dogs and statistics on those breeds. He also read information published on pit bulls, their history, their demeanor and statistics. He is requesting that the word “muzzled” be removed from the code, but he agrees that all dogs being walked should be no further than four (4) feet away from the owner. He also stated dog owners need to train their dogs correctly or they should be muzzled. He further stated he takes his pit bull to dog parks where he takes the leash off and he has had no issues at those parks. He noted that Waukesha County does not specify what breeds of dogs can and cannot be allowed in the parks. The Committee discussed the City’s leash law; that any dog can be declared vicious; if an animal attacks twice it is removed from the City; and there is an overall perception that certain types of breeds are vicious by nature. The Committee directed staff to bring forward draft language for consideration as discussed. Motion by Shaw to adjourn; second by Rosek. Motion carried 3-0. The meeting adjourned at 7:24 PM. Minutes by Diane Coenen, City Clerk Ald. Schmidt, Secretary S:\Committees & Commissions\Protection & Welfare Committee\Minutes\2018\PWMin3-20-18.doc