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Commission approves first reading of dangerous-animal ordinance, schedules July 18 adoption vote
Summary
The commission introduced and approved first reading of a dangerous-animal ordinance that clarifies classification and appeal procedures, and set July 18 for second reading and adoption; staff said animal-control officers will retain primary duties and a county contract remains a future option pending cost figures.
The Mount Clemens City Commission approved introduction and first reading of a proposed dangerous-animal ordinance and set July 18 for the second reading and potential adoption.
Staff reported the ordinance follows a June work session and was drafted to allow the animal-control officer to classify dogs as dangerous, require owner notification, and prescribe steps including confiscation in some circumstances and an appeal process. The text provides that in lieu of the animal-control officer, the officer may file a sworn complaint with district court to seek a determination.
Commissioner Menser and others asked whether the proposed ordinance would change animal-control officers' duties and whether the city would consider contracting with Macomb County for animal-control services; staff said the county is preparing cost figures for the commission to consider and that officers had reviewed the proposed ordinance with no suggested revisions.
Why it matters: The ordinance would establish a local process for classifying and handling dangerous animals, an appeal path through the district court, and options for the city to contract with county services.
What’s next: The commission set a July 18 date for the second reading and adoption and staff said it will add the city clerk as a registration option in the final draft in case the county sheriff cannot manage registrations.
