7.2 SR 07-20-2020 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Planning Commission Linda Silvola, the property owner directly to the west, expressed her deep opposition to the request for additional animal units. She indicated while she is in her backyard, the dogs frequently charge to the invisible fence and bark and snarl at her, while only a few feet away. She shared that one of the dogs left the property (collar batteries failed) and went after the skateboard her children were playing with. The applicant confirmed the event. She noted her children will cross the street to walk past the subject property. She asked the city to honor the establish rules and reminded the commission these parcels are not in the country. Laura Schwartz, applicant, asked condition #2 be changed to allow all four animals be allowed outside at one time indicating it is cruelty to the one dog being left inside while the others are outside. A commissioner indicated they could leave two dogs inside to be together. Laura said it would be detrimental to the family if they were required to get rid of one of the dogs. She shared photos of the property to show how they continually maintain it. Gary Schwartz, applicant, stated they have had no issues with other neighbors and indicate it is "perception" and the neighbors should get to know the dogs to realize how nice they are. Erik Silvola, the property owner directly to the west, stated the dogs have come across the fence in the past and exhibit aggressive barking. He shared a story where an irrigation contractor would not finish the maintenance of their system because of the dogs. A nearby neighbor stated he did not know, for the longest time, the property had dogs. He has since gotten to know the family, and the dogs are not aggressive. He also stated all dogs bark. Valeria Reyes, applicant, indicated the two rottweilers will not be leaving the home, regardless of the city's decision. She stated the only they have had issues with the Sivola's and wished they would make efforts to get to know their dogs. Commissioner Johnson stated that reducing the number of animals by one, situations with aggressive dogs would not go away. A physical privacy fence was discussed so the dogs could not see through, perhaps making the neighbor feel more comfortable in their yard. Mr. Schwartz stated a privacy fence would take away from the natural openness which is why they chose the invisible fence. He stated the variable that does not change in this equation is there will still be two rottweilers living at his home, barking, and snarling at neighbors. The commission agreed a privacy fence along the west property line would not mitigate barking issues. Commissioner Jordan stated he is trying to find the right solution as the applicant is asking for something special and was not supportive of the request. The Planning Commission recommended approval of the request by a 4-2 vote with the conditions listed. Financial Impact None