ANOKA
April 7: The City Council gave initial approval to regulations regarding potentially dangerous dogs. The ordinance does not specifically ban pit bulls or any breed, which is not allowed by state law. Instead, it aims to ensure that owners are responsible for any violation of the city law.
The new rules require that an owner purchase a $40 license for such dogs. It also allows the police department to declare a dog "dangerous" or "potentially dangerous."
According to state law, a dog can be declared dangerous if it inflicts, without provocation, substantial bodily harm on a person; if it kills a domestic animal without provocation off the owner's property; or if its owner has already been notified that it is potentially dangerous and it bites, attacks or endangers the safety of people or domestic animals.
Under the city's ordinance, a dog can be declared potentially dangerous if it attacks or bites a person or a domestic animal without provocation, or if it chases or approaches a person on the street or sidewalk without provocation.
Owners can appeal their dog's status within seven days of the designation as a dangerous dog. Violation of the new ordinance will be a misdemeanor. The City Council is expected to give final approval to the changes on Monday.
RAMSEY
March 25: The City Council approved permits for two special events at Diamond's Sports Bar and Grill. The annual Tribute for Troops event on May 17 and a bull-riding event on June 28 were issued one-time special events permits. Monster Auctions and Events also received a permit that will allow them to hold flea markets, farmers' markets, car shows and auctions on Diamond's property and use public address systems for some of the events. The permit is valid for one year.
LORA PABST
