Submitted by: Laura Reams
Submitting Department: City Clerk
Agenda Section: Discussion
Item Title:
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Hyattsville Ordinance 2022-05: Animal Welfare and Community Safety Act
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Suggested Action:
recommendation
I move the Mayor and Council adopt Hyattsville Ordinance 2022-05, an ordinance whereby the City Council amends Chapter 52 of the City of Hyattsville Code to update and clarify the animal welfare provisions contained therein (SECOND READING & ADOPTION).
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Summary Background:
On October 4, 2021, the Council authorized the City Attorney to draft an ordinance amending Chapter 52 of the Hyattsville City Code to update animal welfare provisions, categorize public nuisance and public threat violations pertaining to animals, and clarify City response protocols for animal control complaints. Council discussed the draft on October 3 and requested several changes.
The following changes were made:
• Added definitions of the following terms:
o Public Nuisance Animal (tracks with Section 52-5 of the Code as well as Prince George’s County Code)
o Public Threat
o Service Animal (refers to MD State Code, Human Services Article 7-701(g))
o Severe Weather (tracks with County Code 3-101(73)
• Added written warning and citation procedures for tethering of dogs.
• Removed categories 1 & 2 as related to Public Nuisance Animal Violation
• Clarified term for public threat related to domesticated animals
• Added exception for service animals, Section 52-5(4)
• Added exception for K9 dogs, Section 52-5
• Replaced “violations” with “citation” for clarity in Section 52-12.
Additionally, staff member Cinthia Manzano has been selected to serve as the staff animal control liaison. Ms. Manzano will serve as the point of contact for residents who require additional information from Prince George’s County Animal Control Division and City departments. She will provide emergency and routine public information and notification when required.
A first reading was held on November 21, 2022.
Next Steps:
Adoption of the ordinance is scheduled for December 5. The ordinance will be effective on December 25.
Fiscal Impact:
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City Administrator Comments:
Recommend Support. This position will be part of the Community Services Division and will coordinate closely with the Hyattsville Police Department.
Community Engagement:
The Animal Control Liaison will serve as a point of contact for residents requiring follow-up in response to animal welfare information, complaints, and violations.
Strategic Goals:
Goal 3 - Promote a Safe and Vibrant Community
Legal Review Required?
Complete