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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2016-01-27 Animal Control Code Gtyof Port * 250 Madison, Suite 2 Townsend Port Townsend, WA 98368 Fax 360-385-4290 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 26, 2016 City Proposes Animal Control Code Changes Public Encouraged to Sign On and Submit Comments Port Townsend, WA (01/26/16) The City is soliciting input through SpeakUp Port Townsend http://www.SpeakUpPT.us on proposed revisions to the Animal Control Code. Major changes to be discussed include clarifying requirements for all animals to be on-leash when off the property of the owner. Under the current proposal, dogs would be allowed off-leash in the Dog Park at Chetzemoka, at Sather Park, and on all beaches not specifically marked as requiring leashes. The proposed language also removes the "Voice Control" provisions, instead requiring a physical restraint for an animal that is off its owner's property. The Council would also consider designating off-leash areas "We are excited about this new way to solicit citizen input and strongly encourage residents of the City to use it," Mayor Deborah Stinson said. "I am proud that the City is focusing on a citizen engagement strategy that reflects the strong tradition of public participation in our community." Mayor Stinson said that the City is also using SpeakUp to feature discussions on each of the five Comprehensive Plan elements (Housing, Transportation, Land Use, Capital Facilities and Utilities, and Economic Development). f LEASH&PICK UP XJ.PET ALL ANIMALS MUST BE ON A LEASH IN CHETZEMOKA PARK. PTMC 8.04.160 •PLEASE PREVENT ANIMALS FADM ENTERING THE GARDEN AREAS. •PIEASE CLERN UP AFTER YOUR PET: In 2015, the City began using a new portal called Speak Up Port Townsend, which can be accessed directly at http://speakuppt.us/or from the City's homepage. The site is moderated by City staff and will provide a better way for City government to listen to community priorities. Through one easy-to-use interface, residents can offer ideas, vote on ideas or provide feedback on current City projects and initiatives. Users can suggest a service improvement, a policy change or provide other recommendations through the site. It also allows them to conveniently participate in online discussion forums and surveys sponsored by the City. The ideas and other feedback contributed on this website goes directly to policy makers and departmental leadership within the City. The new service is powered through a platform called Speak Ups', created by Granicus, Inc. The platform is specifically designed to help government agencies gather meaningful and measurable feedback from the public. Currently, Granicus provides transparency and community collaboration solutions to more than 1,000 local, state, and federal government agencies across the U.S. and Canada. Contacts Steve Gross — City Attorney sgross @Cityofpt.us 360-379-5048 Joanna Sanders — City Clerk jsanders @Cityofpt.us 360-379-5083