Leave the politics out of this one

Tonight, Council wanted a town hall meeting to answer questions and to hold discussion on Fido's Law and on an amendment to a current ordinance on Cruelty to Companion Animals.

It's disappointing however, to hear the responses from my colleagues and especially certain inhumane comments made at points of the meeting.  

Both pieces of legislation were created in partnership with the people. In fact, over 80 people from Mansfield helped to shape these proposed laws (this number includes the people who signed a petition on behalf of the legislation.) 

There was a comment made during the May 5th Council session that was repeated tonight in response to a section of the Cruelty to Companion Animals legislation. The language in my proposed amendment to 505.101 reads: 

505.101 (2) B. amend. No person shall transport a companion animal in the trunk of a vehicle.

I find it appalling that an argument was made to support transporting a dog in a closed trunk of a car. 

The commenter stated, "If I want to transport a dog in the trunk of my car, then as an American, I have the right to do so." 

As citizens of the greatest country in the world; yes, we have rights. But, I cannot support holding a living pet in a closed trunk of a vehicle without sufficient oxygen. If we continue to allow this, then we may be heading down a slippery slope. If Mansfield truly wants to tolerate this kind of behavior, then I have no other option but to support the people of this great city. However, if Mansfield cares about the quality of life not only for companion animals, but for your fellow citizens who are responsible pet owners; then I am encouraging you to support my amendment to the Cruelty to Companion Animals ordinance and the enactment of Fido's Law. 

As public officials our job is to represent the people's voice. Unfortunately and because it is an election year; Council is playing party politics. And to this end, I say: good luck with that. 

On the other hand, your voice should not be rejected by your elected representatives.  

Tell your representatives: Mansfield is ready to move forward. 


-Don 

#FidosLaw
#LegislativeTownHall

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 Analysis on:
 #15-087 (Cruelty to Companion Animals) 
 #15-088 (Fido's Law)

Actual Bills: #15-087 & #15-088 (first 5 pages only)