I agree with Miss Rieder that there is a problem in our county that needs to be addressed. Although I am a staunch proponent of limited government interference into the affairs of law abiding citizens, I know the one all encompassing role of government is to do for the people what the people cannot do for themselves. Having said that, I would like to make a few points.

A few decades ago, our county was suffering from a different scourge; roadside dumping. We all know the negative environmental ramifications of roadside dumps, one of which is a continuing ignition point for wildfires. A. L. Sinclair, local Forest Ranger began cleaning up the dumps and seeding the areas, the county posted no dumping signs, community members reported new dumping, law enforcement including Ranger Sinclair investigated the new dumping and cited violators to court.

The point is that it takes an effort from the community as a whole, including government, to rectify problems such as the one this Animal Control Ordinance is seeking to solve. We don't need to make criminals out of animal lovers by establishing arbitrary rules such as limiting numbers of animals and making some animals legal to raise and others not. I think there are enough rules and laws on the books to curtail and control this problem. However, some rules, laws and penalties may need tweeking to make them more efficient and effective. The public needs to know that "ratting" on folks who may be violating the law or creating a situation not conducive to the public good is acceptable; much the same as reporting those perceived to be driving under the influence. The solution to this problem will be found in a determined, long-term, support and commitment from individuals, the community, governing bodies, law enforcement and the justice system.