PORT TOWNSEND — The city is using the Internet to solicit comments about updates to its animal control code.
The tool used is SpeakUp Port Townsend, an adjunct to the city’s Web page that has already been used to gather comments about the comprehensive plan, which is now in development.
“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 in a news release, calling the process “a citizen engagement strategy that reflects the strong tradition of public participation in our community.”
Revisions to the animal code were discussed by council committees four times in 2015 and have yet to be addressed by the full council.
City Manager David Timmons expects the City Council to discuss changes at the Feb. 16 regular meeting at 6:30 p.m. in the second-floor council chambers of historic City Hall at 540 Water St. A public comment period will be included.
While the Web page allows comment about any aspect of animal control, it is focusing primarily on four topics: off-leash requirements, clarification of cleanup definitions, voice control and designation of off-leash areas.
The code is intended to clarify leash requirements, which are in effect when the animal is not on the owner’s property.
In the revised code, 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.
Currently, dog owners can use voice commands to control a dog that is not on a leash. The revised code would remove that option and require a physical restraint for an animal that is off its owner’s property.
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.
It gathered more than 500 online comments on these topics after a public meeting in June.
To add a comment, go to www.SpeakUpPT.us.
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Jefferson County Editor Charlie Bermant can be reached at 360-385-2335 or cbermant@peninsuladailynews.com.
