Title
Consider an ordinance amending the Code of Ordinances Chapter 6 Animals, adopting miniature swine regulations.
Summary
DATE: May 10, 2022
TO: Kent Cagle, City Manager
FROM: Danielle Singh, Assistant City Manager
SUBJECT: Consider an ordinance amending the Code of Ordinances Chapter 6 Animals, adopting miniature swine regulations
BACKGROUND AND FINDINGS:
Chapter 6 of the Code of Ordinances prohibits pigs in the City limits, unless on property zoned agricultural-open space or agricultural-residential. At the April 12, 2022 City Council meeting a citizen’s petition was made requesting an amendment of the Chapter 6 Ordinance to allow miniature swine within the City limits.
Miniature pigs are bred specifically to attain a maximum height of 20 inches at the shoulder and a maximum weight of 150 pounds. They are very intelligent and can be housetrained, trained to walk on a leash, and respond to basic commands much like a dog. Their average life span is 15-18 years.
In order to amend the Chapter 6 Ordinance to allow miniature swine within the City limits for properties zoned other than agricultural-open space or agricultural-residential, the following changes would be added:
1. Maximum weight of 150 pounds and maximum height of 20 inches at the shoulder
2. Maximum of two miniature swine allowed per household or business
3. All miniature swine must be either spayed or neutered; no propagation or breeding of miniature swine
4. Must be vaccinated and microchipped
5. Excrement cleared daily to meet sanitary requirements
6. Miniature swine are permitted outdoors in a secure area for exercise and elimination only, not to exceed one hour per occurrence
If the ordinance amendment is approved, specialized equipment will be needed to ensure the safety of personnel and the animal(s) when handling/transportation of miniature swine is required. One truck will need to be outfitted with a mechanical lift and a steel cage specifically to be used for swine.
THE ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED:
1. Do not approve the amendment to Chapter 6 of the Code of Ordinances.
2. Approve the amendment to Chapter 6 of the Code of Ordinances, with revisions.
3. Approve the amendment to Chapter 6 of the Code of Ordinances as drafted.
Which alternative is recommended? Why?
Staff recommends that the City Council consider the ordinance request.
CONFORMITY TO CITY POLICY:
This item complies with all applicable policies.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
What is the amount of the expenditure in the current fiscal year? For future years?
This action does not authorize any expenditure of funds. Specialized equipment will need to be considered during upcoming fleet purchases.
Is this a one-time or recurring expenditure?
N/A
Is this expenditure budgeted?
N/A
If not, where will the money come from?
N/A
Is there a sufficient amount in the budgeted line-item for this expenditure?
N/A
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that City Council consider the amendment to Chapter 6 of the Code of Ordinances.
DEPARTMENTAL CLEARANCES:
Legal
ATTACHED SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:
Ordinance