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Newton council considers raising fee for impounded dogs By
Katrina Cartwright NEWTON -- Dog licensing, the new library board, backflow prevention and emergency medical service were issues addressed by the Town Council at its February meeting. Dog licensing has been discussed in the last two meetings of the council. Last month, the council debated whether it should raise the licensing fee for animals. This month it entertained a new idea; members discussed raising the fee on dogs impounded by the county. Thus, the increase in fees would be directed toward those animal owners who do not license their pets. "Last month when we were talking about raising the license fee, I didn't feel good about it," said Mayor Floyd Salisbury. "I didn't want to punish those who license." Councilwoman Helen Rigby said she wants those who don't license their dogs to pay the increase in fees. "This way, those who don't license feel the bite," she said. "It penalizes those who do not license their dogs, not those who comply with the law." Right now, Newton dog owners pay $10 to the town every time their dog is impounded. This fee is one of the lowest in the county. The council decided to discuss the issue further in March's meeting, but will probably pass the increase in impound fees rather than the increase in license fees. The new library board was discussed by the council. The council passed a resolution to keep the current members of the board and added another spot that will be filled by council members. While in office, Rigby will fill the council's spot on the board. Cleo Griffin, who brought the matter before the council, said if the board gets certified by the State Library Board, the library can receive grants. Being recognized by the council is the first step in becoming certified. Terry Goodsell brought the matter of backflow prevention before the council after studying about backflow problems in other areas of Utah. Goodsell said if certain measures are not taken by the town, then backflow could occur and contaminate the town's drinking water. The idea is still in its beginning stages, and Goodsell said he isn't sure yet what measures need to be taken. "If we can help it, we need to protect our water system any way we can," Goodsell said. The council decided to table the issue until next month. Councilman David Cooley said he will work with Goodsell before the next meeting to write a specific ordinance that can be approved by the council. Newton needs to work on getting road signs up so EMS can find homes quickly in an emergency, said Patty Swainston, who discussed the issue with the council. "Seconds count in an emergency," she said. She also announced that emergency medical technicians will teach classes in March or April for the cost of $35 to citizens. People can come to the eight-hour class and become fully certified in cardiopulminary resuscitation. The council will next meet March 7 at 7 p.m.
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