(Feb. 21, 2006) -- In a move sought by city officials as a way to ensure continued convention business from the American Kennel Club, the LB City Council voted 8-0 [2d district vacant] on Feb. 21 for a redrafted version of an ordinance (initially approved by the Council in November 05) that reverses city policy and permits regulated dog breeding in LB.

The Feb. 21 Council vote approved a version of the ordinance substantially reworked by the City Attorney's office with LB Animal Control. It reflects suggestions offered by local animal advocates who objected to the initial version of the ordinance, causing the Council to withhold final approval in December.

At the Feb. 21 Council session, multiple animal advocates, including Friends of LB Animals and [L.A. based] Actors and Others for Animals, testified that they preferred not lifting LB's ban on dog breeding but considered the redrafted ordinance allowing regulated dog breeding a good ordinance that deserved support. Some members of the animal advocate community characterized their acceptance of the new ordinance as "realistic."

Multiple speakers commended LB Animal Control chief Wesley Moore and the LB City Attorney's office for their work in redrafting the ordinance.

The LB Kennel Club urged the policy reversal from its inception last fall.

The revised ordinance also includes verbiage regulating the sale, adoption or other transfer of dogs...and cats.

The Council vote was capped by applause from both groups.

The ordinance is expected to return for a second final Council vote at the next Council meeting.

To view the redrafted ordinance, click here. [A minor wording change was made to the ordinance as passed; when the ordinance returns for a second Council vote, we'll post the revised text.]

To view a city management on future proposed fee changes and staffing support regarding the ordinance, click here.