By KEVIN BERGER, Local Journalism Initiative
In an effort to address increased concerns around animals running at large and excessive numbers of animals being kept on local properties, a new animal control bylaw will soon come before RM of Corman Park council that will provide bylaw enforcement with more tools to deal with these problems.
During the planning committee meeting on September 9, members voted to recommend that council pass first reading on the proposed Animal Control Bylaw 41-25, which will be coming to the council meeting on Tuesday, September 23.
As well, the commitee recommends that administration develop a public information and awareness plan to ensure Corman Park residents are aware of the minimum standards under the bylaw prior to second and third reading being passed.
This will include updates on the RM’s website, hosting an open house and a future community mailout.
The new bylaw would consolidate the RM’s current animal control regulations: The Dogs At Large Bylaw No. 32/20 and The Keeping of Animals Bylaw No. 04/21.
As noted in an administration report, the enforcement tools under these bylaws are limited to issuing notices of violation for dogs at large.
They notably do not allow for animals to be seized and detained at designated animal shelters or for livestock to be sent to designated farm shelters.
Bylaw enforcement officer Bernardo Gonzalez said that improper animal control measures “can affect the safety, health and welfare of people, animals and property in the neighbourhood.
“It can also create impact on the amenity, noise levels, and overall safety of the community, and undermine the proper care and control of animals within Corman Park.”
Gonzalez indicated the new bylaw will establish regulations around the control and keeping of domestic animals, livestock and birds, as well as provide various mechanisms for enforcement.
As per this bylaw, the RM will also enter into a monthly $1,500 contract with SPCA Saskatoon to guarantee animal intake when necessary.