Kennel permit for 54 Chester Street continued after neighbors, Health Department raise repeated complaints

The Zoning Committee on June 24 continued consideration of a special permit for a kennel at 54 Chester Street, citing multiple Health Department complaints and requests for updated inspections.

Applicant Breanna Wilson said she applied for a kennel permit for four dogs and reported she currently has three dogs (one service dog, two emotional‑support dogs). Health and Planning reports in the record document repeated complaints at the property dating back to 2021, including orders to remove animals and to abate nuisance conditions; the Health Department memo attached to the minutes notes prior violations for debris, unlicensed livestock and rodent attraction. Neighbors offered mixed testimony: Virginia Degutis said “the property is a mess and it is not big enough for 4 dogs to be running around,” and Laurie Cole detailed multiple complaints, alleged harassment and a near‑bite involving a child; other neighbors said they have not observed a nuisance.

Councilors raised questions about the property’s capacity to support a kennel license and whether departmental inspections (TJO, Fire, Health) demonstrate compliance. City Solicitor Kevin Corridan advised that the committee could condition a special permit but that kennel licensing and revocation are handled through the City Clerk and enforcement channels; Councilor Susan Goff asked that department heads specify what the property can safely handle. The committee voted to continue the application to the July 29, 2026 Zoning Committee meeting to allow inspections and updated departmental recommendations.