TITLE
Recommendation to receive and file report on future proposed fee changes and staffing support in regard to proposed dog breeding ordinance. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
On November 1, 2005, the City Council requested the City Attorney to prepare amendments to Sections 6.16.080 and 6.16.190 of the Long Beach Municipal Code to allow permitted dog breeding in the city. These amendments were proposed in response to requests from City of Long Beach residents and national organizations promoting the continuation of dog breeds through responsible breeding. On December 13, 2005, following input from Animal Control Division staff, the City Attorney brought the proposed amendments to City Council for approval. At that time, concerns were expressed by individuals in both the animal rescue and dog breeding communities about the recommended revisions. The City Council directed staff to meet with both communities to discuss further revisions to the Code, and requested the City Attorney to return in 45 days with a newly proposed ordinance incorporating suggestions generated from these discussions. A public meeting was held on December 29, 2005. Recurring themes expressed by individuals at the meeting revolved around the need for enforcement and how to adequately fund these efforts. As requested, the City Attorney has brought forth the suggested amendments in a separate item for the February 21, 2006, City Council meeting.
Thorough investigation of illegal animal breeding activity and strict enforcement of ordinance restrictions are critical to the success of this program. The Animal Control Division will, therefore, need additional staff to support and enforce the amended dog breeding ordinance. To meet that need, a fee resolution will be submitted to the City Council following approval and enactment of the revised Code sections. Revenue generated by the future proposed fee resolution is expected to cover all costs associated with the administration of the amended ordinance....
Click here for full text