Village sets July 14 public hearing on proposed dog-law amendment

The Village Board voted to set a public hearing for 6:30 p.m. on July 14 to consider amendments to Chapter 59 of the village code that would change how fees and reimbursement are handled when the county seizes dogs.

The proposed draft would make owners responsible for costs incurred by the county in redeeming seized animals rather than requiring the village to make upfront payments and then pursue reimbursement. The village attorney cautioned the board to confirm the change’s compatibility with state law and municipal authority before adopting the new language.

Trustees agreed it would probably be preferable to place the financial burden on owners rather than the municipality if the state and any applicable market/agency guidance permit it. The board voted to set the public hearing and instructed staff to circulate notice and finalize draft language before the July meeting.

Next steps: staff will publish the legally required hearing notice and return the ordinance language for public comment and possible revision at the July 14 meeting.