Minutes - Council - 12/13/2016 - Laserfiche WebLink

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stated that Peter is a pet and is not livestock, noting that the USDA also clarifies this type of pig as a pet rather than livestock. Mayor Strommen stated that the Council appreciates the emotion surrounding this issue and will focus on the facts pertaining to the City Code. Councilmember Kuzma stated that he lives within the Northfork community and is concerned that the applicant is requesting a non-traditional license. He was not sure why this was not done prior to purchase of the pet. He stated that he is also concerned with the other after the fact permits as well as the safety issue regarding animal waste. He stated that he is not in support of this request. Councilmember Riley referenced the map which identified the location from which comments were received. He stated that he was struck by the fact that the people nearest to the property were in favor of the request and those opposing the request live some distance away therefore he was not sure how those property owners would be impacted by the decision. Councilmember Shryock stated that her understanding is that a pot-bellied pig is considered a pet. She referenced the comment regarding their waste and stated that given the size of the pet she would compare the waste to be similar to any dog and therefore did not see that as an issue. She did not see how that would even be an issue as dog or cat waste could be all over someone's yard. City Planner Anderson stated that topic was addressed because of the non-traditional animal license requested. He agreed that an animal of that size would not generate much more waste than a dog. He stated that in terms of composting, it is not uncommon for communities to prohibit animal waste from being composted which is why staff recommended building that alternative into the license. Community Development Director Gladhill noted that this is being treated similar to dog waste, noting that the City would not allow accumulation of dog waste to be stored on the yard. Councilmember Williams asked for clarification on whether the City Code prohibits backyard composting of animal waste. City Planner Anderson stated that topic is not specifically addressed within City Code, therefore the exclusion could be viewed as being prohibited. City Attorney Langel commented that if the item is not specifically prohibited, the result would be that the activity is allowed. Councilmember Williams commented that this is only the second non-traditional animal license that has come before the Council. She appreciated the ability of staff to work through the ordinance in order to apply the regulations to such different requests. She stated that hopefully the license process will allow the City to respond to the requests in a reasonable manner. City Council / December 13, 2016 Page 9 of 15