Fond du Lac residents describe repeated dog attacks; council moves to closed session over possible litigation

Multiple residents of the Elm Acres neighborhood told the Fond du Lac City Council on Jan. 8 that a neighbor's dog has repeatedly threatened people and pets, and they urged the council and law enforcement to act. After public comments, the council adjourned to a closed session to consult legal counsel about “possible litigation, public nuisance bridal control at Elm Acres Drive,” and Chief Goldstein was listed as expected to attend.

Why it matters: Residents said the dog’s behavior has curtailed outdoor activity, especially for children and elderly neighbors, and that prior incidents include a fatal attack on a neighbor’s dog in August 2024. The council’s move to closed session signals the city may pursue legal advice or action about the property or nuisance claim.

Several residents described a pattern of incidents they say began after the Campbells moved to the neighborhood. John Oberg, a resident, said he first raised the issue at an October 2024 council meeting and that neighbors now “keep the dogs leashed. Keep the kids inside.”

Peggy Cheechak, who said she lives at 26 Elmakers Drive, described a recent attempted attack in which the dog lunged from a garage and “dragged [the owner] within a 5 feet distance of my husband.” She said neighbors no longer feel safe letting elderly relatives or children outside.

Nancy Reilbeck Thomas said her dog, Bailey, was killed Aug. 10, 2024, and that the dog’s owner, Dawn Campbell, told her husband “good” after learning of Bailey’s death. “Never has anyone who has had an incident with the Campbells ever heard ‘I’m sorry,’ ” Thomas said, asking council members and law enforcement to act to protect neighbors.

Jim Thomas described ongoing hostility from the neighbor and said neighborhood traditions such as block parties and Halloween gatherings have changed because residents avoid that house. Chad Mongeon, who said he has four children, said the neighborhood’s circular street is the children’s main play area and described occasions when the dog charged a babysitter and a small child.

Council members did not debate the substance of potential legal action in open session. The council president, listed in the meeting as President Bridal, asked for a motion to adjourn to closed session “to confer with legal counsel regarding possible litigation requiring a closed session,” specifically naming the Elm Acres matter. Council member Schusser made the motion, Mullen seconded it, and the council voted to adjourn; Chief Goldstein was noted as expected to attend the closed session.

The council did not disclose any formal orders, deadlines, or remedies in open session. The council’s next steps and any legal filings were not specified at the meeting.