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Newaygo council transfers K‑9 Bella to handler, approves burial at Marshall Park
Summary
Council approved transferring ownership of 11½‑year‑old K‑9 Bella to her handler, Officer Nelson, following a department recommendation to retire the dog for medical reasons; council also approved burial at Marshall Park when Bella passes and a retirement ceremony is planned.
Chief Andres told the council that K‑9 Bella, who is 11½ years old, is experiencing medical issues and that a veterinarian recommended she be taken out of service. Officer Nelson, Bella’s handler, requested to adopt the dog after retirement. The chief said the department currently can access other K‑9 resources in the area and plans a retirement ceremony after the new year; a local funeral home has offered donated cremation and burial services.
Mayor Ed Fedell moved to transfer ownership of Bella from the city to Officer Nelson; Black seconded the motion. Council approved the transfer by unanimous vote. The council also approved a separate motion allowing Bella to be buried at Marshall Park when she passes, if Officer Nelson chooses that option. Both motions were recorded as approved by general consent (AIF/MC).
The minutes do not record a vote tally by name for these specific motions beyond the AIF/MC notation, but roll call earlier in the meeting listed seven council members present. The council did not authorize a replacement K‑9 at this meeting.
