OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Language often shapes our understanding of complex issues, and that was evident at the Dec. 3rd Marion County Board of County Commissioners meeting. where a public hearing was held to discuss proposed amendments to Chapter 4 of the county code regarding animal control.
The meeting, hosted at the McPherson Government Complex, marked the first of two public hearings on the issue. A second hearing is scheduled for Feb. 4, 2025, giving county commissioners and staff time to consult with subject matter experts before finalizing any changes.
Key Issues Addressed
Dana Olesky, Marion County’s Chief Assistant County Attorney, presented a detailed overview of the proposed changes. The discussion touched on several key issues, including zoning restrictions, animal rescue operations, and licensing processes.
One major topic was how to define and regulate animal rescue organizations. Commissioners debated whether such organizations should require a special use permit or be limited to certain zoning classifications. The distinction between rescues operating as non-profits versus those generating income also came under scrutiny.
Another significant focus was licensing. The county has modernized its licensing process with a new online portal, simplifying the experience for pet owners. Commission Chair Kathy Bryant emphasized the importance of licensing for tracking lost animals and verifying vaccination records.
“The only way you could get your licensing done was either to go to animal services, having a vet do it through snail mail, or you can do it through snail mail,” said Bryant.
Bryant suggested an additional step: mandating veterinarians to issue licenses at the time of administering rabies vaccinations. She explained that it would streamline the process for pet owners and ensure compliance, making it a seamless part of veterinary services.
Reevaluating the ‘No Kill’ Shelter Philosophy
The board of county commissioners has received an ample number of emails from citizens in the community regarding the county’s no kill shelter, and the title “no kill,” which Bryant said can be misleading.
Bryant went on to say that when an animal’s welfare declines due to long-term kenneling or health issues beyond recovery, difficult decisions must be made. “Our staff sometimes has to make those difficult decisions,” she said. “And they catch a lot of heat for it.”
Some suggested rebranding the shelter’s philosophy as “socially conscious,” a term gaining traction nationally. Commissioner Carl Zalak III proposed that Marion County Animal Services create its own mission statement, reflecting local values and goals.
Kyra Lynch, Marion County’s Animal Services Director, offered historical context, noting that the no kill movement began in the 1990s to reduce euthanasia due to space constraints. However, Lynch acknowledged the term’s limitations.
“The problem with it is the terminology is very misleading,” states Lynch. “There is no legal definition of ‘no kill.’ The recognized goal, for the lack of a better words for ‘no kill,’ is a 90% live release rate or higher. So, 90% of the animals leave with positive outcomes. That’s a goal that everybody should have, and we should have a goal that’s greater than that.”
Community Involvement and Next Steps
The public hearing allowed community members to voice opinions, raising awareness about the complexities of animal control policies. The commissioners and staff will use the feedback, along with consultations with experts, to refine the ordinance before the February 2025 hearing.
For now, the focus remains on creating a balanced approach that addresses community concerns while ensuring the welfare of animals in Marion County.