Kern County Planning Commission continues kennel permit hearing to May 8 after neighbor complains of persistent barking

The Kern County Planning Commission on March 13, 2025 voted 4‑0, with one member absent, to continue a decision on a request by John and Bonnie Thompson to make permanent a conditional use permit to operate a kennel for up to 25 dogs on a roughly 20‑acre parcel in the Pozzo Flats area to a hearing on May 8, 2025.

Staff recommended approval of the modification after reporting the kennel operated under a previous five‑year temporary permit without any official complaints recorded by county departments during that term. Mr. Murphy, a county planner, told commissioners the operation includes a 2,600‑square‑foot residence, a 400‑square‑foot indoor kennel area, outdoor fenced runs, and that Kern County Animal Services has “confirmed that the kennel has passed yearly inspections and as and is in compliance for the requirements for this type of operation.” The staff report said 15 Miki…