LIMA NEWS (Ohio) 12 January 06 Residents ask village to define ‘exotic animals’ (David Trinko)
West Leipsic: The first village council meeting of the year in West Leipsic turned into a roll call of exotic species.
Newly sworn-in councilor Betty Berger dug into some old business, questioning the previous council’s decision to pass legislation forbidding livestock and exotic animals in the village. Berger’s husband Terry successfully fought a citation under an old ordinance forbidding animals that caused noxious odors.
The council for the village in northern Putnam County passed the new ordinance Nov. 10 after waiving the traditional three readings.
“I just don’t understand what constituted that as an emergency,” Berger said. “I don’t understand why that wasn’t read three times.”
Once the topic came up, residents and council members asked solicitor Todd Schroeder what animals fell under “exotic animal.” The ordinance described an exotic animal as “any animal that is not indigenous to North America,” with the exception of domesticated dogs and cats.
“There are some things that can be sold in stores that aren’t allowed in the Village of West Leipsic,” said councilor Chuck Ellerbrock. “…I think you’re making a mountain out of a mole-hill here.”
Residents asked whether baby alligators, large lizards and other pet-store novelties might be covered. Council even passed one person’s cellular phone around the room to look at a photograph of a Savannah monitor, a large lizard that can grow up to six feet long.
“Deputy Greg Westrick will be the one who enforces this, so it’ll be up to him to use his discretion,” Schroeder said. “If you want to bring a particular thing to his attention, you can. If not, don’t.”
Residents ask village to define ‘exotic animals’