A dangerous dog hearing dominated the Charlton Select Board meeting on September 23, 2025, as residents voiced concerns over a dog named Gia, owned by Maureen McGinty. This hearing was a continuation from a previous meeting held on May 27, where the board mandated the installation of self-closing gates and a three-month observation period to monitor any further incidents involving the dog.

Despite the initial compliance, a new complaint was filed on September 2, indicating that Gia had escaped onto a neighbor's property. Animal Control Officer Ace Sears reported that the escape occurred due to a lapse in supervision by a dog sitter, who inadvertently left the gate open. Fortunately, there were no aggressive incidents during this escape, but the board expressed serious concerns about Gia's behavior.

During the hearing, both the complainants, Kelly and Wolfgang LePage, and McGinty provided testimonies. The LePages described a chaotic scene when they found Gia loose, emphasizing their fear for their own dogs' safety. McGinty, on the other hand, expressed her commitment to resolving the issue, stating she would ensure Gia is leashed when outside and is exploring additional safety measures, including an underground fence.

The board ultimately decided to classify Gia as a dangerous dog, requiring her to be leashed at all times until a secondary fencing solution is implemented. This decision carries significant implications, including potential impacts on McGinty’s homeowner's insurance and the legal responsibilities associated with owning a dog deemed dangerous.

The board's ruling aims to balance the safety of the community with the well-being of Gia, as they navigate the complexities of dog ownership and public safety. The next steps include monitoring compliance with the leash requirement and exploring additional fencing options, with a follow-up expected in the coming months.