“I was frankly surprised we didn’t have an ordinance.”
But now that they do have an ordinance requiring people to clean up after their dogs, Oshtemo Township Supervisor Cheri Bell thinks its good public policy.
“I think it’s a good ordinance.”
Without a law on the books township attorney James Porter says the ordinance enforcement officer had no authority to act.
“We have had some problems in a few neighborhoods where people are walking their dogs and not policing their dog and wasn’t able to take any action to curb the bad behavior.”
The township says the uncollected dog waste is a sanitary and environmental concern. People making a complaint typically provide proof.
“What happens is people take pictures of their neighbors and da, da, da, dah and are ready to provide evidence.”
Fines start at 150-dollars for the first offense. Up to 500-dollars for repeat violations. The township board is hoping it doesn’t come to that.
“Hopefully we can just explain to people don’t do this, don’t do this. Take care of your dog or whatever your dog leaves behind.”
