River Heights considers changes in animal control

By Brock Anderson

September 14, 2003 | RIVER HEIGHTS -- City Council members had mixed feelings concerning current animal control services during their Tuesday meeting. While all three council members at the meeting felt the current services need to be reviewed, Councilwoman Gladys Ann Atwood seemed more concerned about public safety.

"I know that in the last three weeks we've had three dog bites," said Atwood. "I want to know when I go out in the morning that I'm not going to get attacked by a dog."

River Heights is currently paying $750 a month for animal control services. Councilman Rob Gines believes the service can be provided for less than that.

In other cities animal control services are contracted out for only 10-15 hours a week for fees about half of what the city now pays. Gines doesn't know if 10-15 hours a week would be appropriate for River Heights, but does believe different options should be considered.

Atwood said she feels the current people providing animal control services are doing a good job.

Councilwoman Debbie Rees and Gines made it clear they are not displeased with the current service provided, but want to explore other avenues that might be better suited for the city.

"We are just talking dollars and cents and not anything else," Gines said.

The council decided to look at other options and will make a decision on the issue at a later time.

Council members Brent Greenhalgh and Mary Yancey were not present to express their opinions.

In other business the council:

-- heard from Public Works Supervisor Kent Parker concerning current projects;
-- decided to continue to pay election judges $50 rather than increase pay to $75;
-- agreed to hold a meet the candidates night for the upcoming election on Wednesday, Oct. 26 at 7 p.m; amd
-- discussed information that will be included in the new Policies and Procedures Manual for the city.

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