Commission Hears Citizen Concerns
by Ashley Murphy

Monday, June 14, 2010

Beth Foster with Dixie Day Spay and Neuter came before the Bradley County Commission today to express concerns for animals in the area that are being taken to the local animal shelter. Foster stated that an estimated 200 dogs are being "put down" every week in Cleveland and not enough privileges have been allotted for her organization to come in and take pictures of the animals.

The pictures are placed on the Dixie Dogs and Cats website in hopes that more people will take interest and the animals can be adopted before being euthanized. As of now, pictures can be taken by organizations, but the photographer must remain outside of all kennels. Foster said it takes away the intimacy of the photograph to show the dogs true nature. Foster's goal is to increase pet adoptions by 10% before the end of the fiscal year.

Deanna Phillips with PALS, however, disagrees. She stated that it takes up too much of the Animal Shelter staff's time and that staff can only do what they can with the resources they have.

An Animal Shelter Committee meeting will be held at an announced date to discuss this matter further.

Barbara Gilbert, a Royal Oaks resident, came before the commission again today to share her agitation at the ongoing water issue with Wilkinson Creek. Gilbert stated that the commission is putting out contradictory statements and that Bradley County owes its citizens an apology. Gilbert went on to say that she has received many threats over the course of this entire situation due to many believing she is out to shut down Peachtree Pointe and put the tenants out of their homes. She stated she wishes no harm of any sort to come to the Peachtree residents; this course of action has been taken by herself to better the community and for the sake of health of many residents.

After the meeting was adjourned, County Engineer Sandra Knight said that the State has issued a Notice of Violation to the owner of Peachtree Pointe. The State has to handle all issues from there. All the county can do from this point is push the State, because it is out of their hands due to the section of land being private property.

The Bradley County Commission will hold their next meeting on Monday, June 21st at 10 a.m. in the Bradley County Courthouse.