In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the approval of a dog ordinance amendment following a tragic incident involving a four-year-old girl who was attacked by a group of dogs in rural Boyne County. The meeting highlighted the need for updated regulations to address such incidents, as the existing ordinance was deemed insufficient.

The board confirmed that the first reading of the ordinance had been approved, with members Sarah Shane McCampbell, Jim Carrey, and Tom Broker voting in favor. The discussion also revealed that the ordinance had undergone several public hearings since its initial passage in 2017, reflecting community concerns and the complexities of implementing dog control measures.

The impetus for the amendment arose from a suggestion by a local resident, Tim Scott, who proposed that individuals bitten by dogs should be notified of rabies test results. This idea prompted officials to review the existing ordinance, which was found to contain outdated information. As a result, the board initiated a series of public hearings to gather input on the proposed changes.

The meeting underscored the ongoing efforts of local government to enhance public safety through legislative updates, particularly in response to community feedback and significant incidents. The board's commitment to revising the dog ordinance aims to ensure better communication and safety measures for residents.