City Council proposes new leash law amid resident concerns over dog control

The City Council of Macedonia convened on June 12, 2025, for a work session and meeting focused on various community concerns, including dog leash regulations and solicitation practices within the city.

The session began with a discussion on the proposed ordinance regarding dog leash requirements. Council members expressed concerns about allowing dogs to be off-leash in densely populated neighborhoods. One council member emphasized the potential risks, particularly with children playing nearby, stating that distractions could lead to unpredictable behavior from dogs. The consensus was that all dogs should remain on leashes to ensure safety for residents. The council plans to finalize the vote on this ordinance in August, inviting residents to share their thoughts before the decision is made.

Following the dog ordinance discussion, the council addressed the issue of solicitors in the community. Complaints have been rising regarding aggressive solicitation tactics, particularly during late hours. Council members debated the current regulations, which allow solicitors until half an hour after sunset. Some members suggested that this timeframe is too lenient and proposed tightening the rules to better protect residents, especially seniors. The council agreed to explore options for stricter enforcement and to hold solicitors accountable for violations.

Additionally, the council discussed the handling of unclaimed property, including cash and gift cards found by the police. A motion was made to accept these items into the general fund, which was met with no objections.

The meeting concluded with a note that an executive session would follow the public discussions, indicating ongoing deliberations on sensitive matters not disclosed during the public meeting.

Overall, the council's discussions reflect a proactive approach to community safety and regulation, with plans for further engagement with residents on these important issues.