A copy of the ordinance, having been placed on the desks of each member of Council prior to introduction, was read by title.

Mr. Stephens explained that this is the second reading of an ordinance to require dogs to be kept on leashes when off the owner’s property. The ordinance was introduced with a first reading at the December meeting. Mr. Stephens invited Public Safety Director Alan Hill to make a short presentation as to the need for these changes.

Chief Hill referenced a PowerPoint presentation, and reviewed the current ordinance for “Pets at Large”. He explained that the proposed ordinance will change the name to “Dogs at Large” and will specifically address dogs with the goal to reduce the number of dog calls and dog bites. The “leash law” is designed to mitigate the unpredictability of dogs and to protect both citizens and other animals from unexpected and unwanted encounters. There are around 1,000 dogs in Oakwood, in an area of just 2.2 square miles. Citizens should be able to move about the public sidewalks and rights-of-way freely and without concern or fear from unleashed dogs. Since January 1, 2014, the Public Safety Department has responded to 127 dog related calls for service of which 39 of these incidents have been for the report of a dog bite. The proposed legislation does include a service dog exception. The penalty for having a dog unleashed is a minor misdemeanor. Minimum fines (plus court costs) have been established and will be imposed for anyone found in violation of this ordinance. In closing, Chief Hill shared that this ordinance is designed with public safety as the primary concern and the issuance of a verbal warning, along with educating the citizen, is the preferred course of action for anyone found to be in violation for the first time. Repeat violations and offenders will be addressed accordingly.

Mrs. Hilton asked if there was a specific reason why the title will be changed from “pets” to “dogs”.

Chief Hill explained that the Public Safety Department occasionally receives complaints regarding pets other than dogs, but 99% of the complaints are for dogs.

Mr. Stephens asked if the Public Safety Officers will take into consideration whether dogs get out by accident.

Chief Hill shared that Public Safety Officers understand that this can happen, and there will be soft enforcement in these situations.

Mayor Duncan asked Chief Hill what is considered a leash.

Chief Hill answered that electronic leashes are not covered in this proposed ordinance; only physical leashes are being recognized. The ordinance not only states that a leash is required, but the owner must have reasonable control over the dog as well.

Mayor Duncan asked if other communities have leash laws.

Chief Hill confirmed that they do. He shared that the surrounding cities of Dayton and Kettering both have leash laws.

Mr. Stephens reiterated that this ordinance will require dogs to be “securely leashed and under reasonable control,” and also includes language to clarify the service animal exception and to create an exemption for the Dog Park at Creager Field.

Thereupon, it was moved by Mr. Stephens and seconded by Mr. Byington that the ordinance be passed.

Upon call of the roll on the question of the motion, the following vote was recorded: