The Wicomico County Council will reconsider Legislative Bill 2025-01, which pertains to dog kennels, at its legislative meeting on February 18, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in the Council Chambers, Government Office Building.
The Council will review the setback distance requirement and consider an amendment to the bill that would allow the Board of Appeals to modify the setback requirement by special exception.
The reconsideration by Council is intended to ensure that existing kennel operators with a special exception under the current code can continue to operate beyond the three-year sunset period without needing to reapply.
Despite social media misrepresentations, the County Council’s intentions were never to put existing kennel operators out of business nor to cause undue hardship. Following the adoption of Legislative Bill 2025-01 which increased the setback distance, it was brought to the Council’s attention that the increased setback requirement could pose significant challenges for existing kennel operators. Since the first day following its last meeting, Council members and staff have worked closely with legal counsel and kennel owners to quickly resolve this matter.
The Council sincerely thanks the kennel operators for reaching out and providing their comments on this matter. Their input was invaluable in helping us take swift action to find a solution that works for everyone.
The Council’s highest priority is working collaboratively for the good of the community; placing such commitment over and above any political posturing. It has always remained resolute in its commitment to enacting responsible legislation in the most responsible manner with the interest of all citizens of Wicomico County in mind.
I wonder what that water tower on Edgemore St in Salisbury looks like inside. The outside is really shabby looking.