Hamilton council tables recent amendment to Ordinance 409, chair cites setbacks and enforcement concerns

Hamilton — The Hamilton City Council voted to table the most recent amendment to Ordinance 409 after the presiding official said the amendment’s relationship to the city’s zoning rules and permit process had not been adequately explained to the public.

The presiding official, who ran the meeting, said the zoning ordinance determines where animals may be kept while Ordinance 409 sets setbacks for animal enclosures. "Any complaint that came in, everything would already be documented on the permit," the presiding official said, arguing that permits would show whether a site was conforming and could save time for enforcement staff. "In my opinion, there's really not a problem with the ordinance because in my mind, I see how they work together," the presiding official added, while acknowledging others may see it differently.

After explaining the relationship between ordinances and noting concern about how the amendment had been presented at the prior meeting, the presiding official moved to table the recent amendment and to restore the code to its prior form. The motion was seconded and approved; the transcript records the chair calling for "all in favor" and no opposition being recorded.

Council members Shane Scott and Sherry were recorded as participating in the motions to amend the agenda and in subsequent procedural votes. The chair also used the moment to clarify public-comment procedures, saying the revised policy formalizes a long-standing practice that requires speakers to sign up on the agenda and, where appropriate, submit written questions in advance so the council can respond accurately.

The council did not adopt a substitute amendment during the session; the tabled amendment will remain off the agenda until council or staff brings it back for further explanation or revision.