Agenda - Council Work Session - 12/14/2021

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Mayor Kunza asked whether a resident could obtain a variance if they wanted to have more animals. Senior Planner McGuire Brigl stated a Conditional Use Permit for a private kennel license is required, with formal hearing before the Planning Commission and City Council. Councilmember Riley stated there have been Code compliance cases where residents have had more than 3 dogs that were harder to care for, and there was too much noise. He added this will give the City a way to make sure that residents have the ability and space to take care of multiple dogs. Councilmember Specht asked what the process is for getting a kennel license, and whether there are requirements and fees. Senior Planner McGuire Brigl stated the resident would submit a formal land use application to the City and public notice is sent to adjacent residents. She added a public hearing will be held before the Planning Commission and formally approved by the City Council via Resolution. Councilmember Specht asked whether there are State regulations for domestic animals. Senior Planner McGuire Brigl stated she is not aware of any State regulations, and most enforcement falls on the City Code. Mayor Kuzma stated the City should have an adequate process if someone wants to have more pets. He added situations can be addressed individually. He noted he would not be in favor of changing that policy. Councilmember Musgrove stated, as part of this discussion, the process could be shortened so that not every case would be required to come to the City for an appeal. She added she would support that process. Senior Planner McGuire Brigl stated City Staff is open to the appeal option. She added the City will be put in a difficult position if residents already have animals and then bring their appeal to the City Council. She noted it would be preferable for residents to apply before they get their animals. Motion by Councilmember Musgrove, seconded by Councilmember Heineman, to continue the Public Hearing introducing Ordinance 21-11 amending Chapter 10 of the City Code including Requirements for Keeping of Cats and Roosters to the Regular Council Meeting on August 10, 2021. Further discussion: Councilmember Musgrove requested that this issue be reviewed at a work session. Councilmember Howell agreed. City Administrator Ulrich stated this item can be added to the August 10 work session, although there are already items on that agenda. Jared Little, 7590 149th Lane NW, stated he has been a beekeeper for over 10 years. He added he has taught beekeeping classes for many years and is in the process of getting his Master Beekeeper certification. He added he is in favor of adding beekeeping to this Ordinance to make it easier for beekeepers to obtain a license. He noted this Ordinance is a step in the right direction to provide City Council / July 27, 2021 Page 6 of 25