Borough ordinance prohibits raising deer
DUNBAR — A resident looking to obtain a permit to raise a deer on his property is prohibited from doing so under an ordinance that regulates the keeping of animals within the borough.
Borough council on Monday discussed at length the inquiry from Roger Hall.
Borough secretary Tammy Nedrow said Hall previously had a permit from the U.S. Department of Agriculture for a deer he had about four years ago.
According to the ordinance, it is unlawful for any person to keep, breed or raise any dangerous animal, any exotic/wild animal or any domestic fowl at any place within the borough.
Solicitor Tim Witt said although Hall had the proper state permit, the deer could be classified in the ordinance as a large animal that includes, but is not limited to, horses, cows, sheep, goats, pigs, hogs and swine.
In another matter involving permits, Mayor Patrick Fitzgerald said the police department compiled a list of four property owners in violation of the borough’s ordinance for storing abandoned or nuisance vehicles that are inoperable or unlicensed.
The property owners received letters giving them 30 days to comply or the option to file an appeal within 10 days of the notice.
Turning to other business, council agreed to send a formal letter to the Dunbar Borough/Township Sewerage Authority indicating its interest to work with them as a guarantor for refinancing an existing debt the authority has.
A representative of the authority approached council several months ago on the issue informing them of the lower interest rate that would potentially save $300,000 over the course of the current loan.
The authority also spoke about the refinancing to Dunbar Township officials who would also need to agree.