Neighbors demand action over dog kennel noise complaints

Residents of a local neighborhood expressed growing concerns during a recent government meeting regarding noise and visual disturbances from a nearby dog kennel operation. The discussions highlighted ongoing issues with compliance to permit conditions, particularly regarding noise abatement and visual screening.

Community members reported that the kennel, which operates in a residential zone, has failed to adequately implement the required noise and sight obscuring measures. The existing fencing, intended to serve as a buffer, was criticized for being insufficient—standing only six feet tall with privacy screening that barely reaches four feet and is made of fabric, which does little to mitigate noise. Residents noted that noise levels peak on weekends, disrupting their ability to enjoy their homes.

One resident pointed out that the kennel's location on an undersized parcel, compared to the five-acre minimum zoning for the area, exacerbates the noise problem. They argued that if the kennel had been situated on a larger property, the noise would be less intrusive. The resident also suggested that a human presence should be required when dogs are outside to help manage barking and other disturbances.

Concerns were raised about the county's oversight of the kennel's operations, with claims that there has been little to no inspection since the original permit was issued. This lack of enforcement has led to ongoing violations of noise and sight mitigation requirements, prompting calls for more rigorous county inspections and accountability.

Another resident, who lives nearby, acknowledged the noise but indicated that it was not a significant issue for them personally. However, the overall sentiment among those who spoke was one of frustration over the kennel's impact on their quality of life and the perceived inadequacy of the county's regulatory measures.

As the meeting concluded, residents expressed a desire for a more peaceful community and urged local officials to take action to address the ongoing disturbances.