Patchogue ZBA closes public hearing on Paws United move to Waverly Avenue, requests additional records

The Village of Patchogue Zoning Board of Appeals on Feb. 12 closed the public hearing on a special-permit application from Paws United to operate an animal rescue and training center at 173–175 Waverly Avenue, moving the application to the decision calendar and asking the applicant to supply additional records within about seven days.

The board said the decision will hinge on whether the proposed use will “prevent the orderly and reasonable use of adjacent property” and meet other special-permit criteria spelled out in the village code (code citation referenced in the hearing as 43566CD). The board’s chair warned the applicant that any future permit would be contingent on the operation’s actual effect on neighbors.

Supporters and volunteers described Paws United as a long-running rescue that operates more like a home than a kennel, emphasizing training, volunteer oversight and partnerships with the SPCA and county health agencies. Cholanda Lobello, vice president of Paws United, said volunteers are regularly on site and that the operation uses camera systems and staggered staffing to limit disruption. "The dogs have known that. They…