Selectmen approve warrant proceedings for 46 unlicensed dogs; clerk reviews warning process

The Alton Board of Selectmen on June 9 approved the town clerk’s warrant and proceedings addressing unlicensed dogs in town.

The clerk told the board the packet included a list of 46 entries compiled as of the submission deadline and outlined the standard process: written warnings are issued first, and enforcement actions follow for persistent noncompliance. The clerk asked the board to approve the warrant and proceedings as presented; a motion to do so was made, seconded and carried.

Members discussed whether the list could be published online rather than distributed in paper form and whether reminders could be scheduled alongside vehicle registration to reduce missed dog-license renewals. One resident and a selectman noted that mailings are required by RSA; the board discussed the costs of mailing and the potential to use proceeds from fines to fund reminders. The clerk confirmed that written warnings—and subsequent enforcement—are the established first step under the town’s process.

No specific fines or names beyond the count were read aloud at the meeting; the clerk provided the full list in the meeting packet. Board members requested continuing outreach about dog licensing and discussed operational options for mailing or online posting.