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Board schedules public hearing on proposed lifetime dog license and fee increases
Summary
The board directed staff to set a public hearing on a proposed $30 lifetime dog license (or raising annual/kennel fees). Treasurer presented data on license counts and administrative costs and cited Virginia code reference '3.2653.'
Treasurer Charles Evelyn (presented by Treasurer staff at SEG 597–631; speaker identified in transcript as "Charles Evelyn") asked the board to consider a $30 lifetime dog license and increases to kennel and annual fees, noting the county has not changed licensing fees in more than 20 years. The treasurer cited data from three fiscal years showing 853, 793 and 953 licenses sold (quarter-year windows described by the treasurer) and described staff time spent processing records and mailings; the office also tracks rabies records that must be cross‑checked.
Board members debated revenue impacts and administrative savings. Several supervisors voiced skepticism about replacing annual revenue and asked for more data on counties that have not adopted lifetime licenses. The treasurer said New Kent and Hanover use lifetime licensing and explained New Kent’s process for tracking rabies to maintain eligibility.
The board voted to direct staff to schedule the measure for a public hearing so the public can weigh in and the board can review additional data and ordinance language. Staff will return with a proposed ordinance, fee schedule and comparisons to neighboring localities.
