HomeMy WebLinkAboutASAB minutes 092412
Minutes from Meeting of Representatives of the Animal Services Advisory Board &
Agricultural Preservation Board
5:00 to 6:30 p.m., September 24, 2012.
Present: David Stancil, Howard McAdams, Annette Moore, Kim Woods, Judy Miller,
Suzanne Roy, Bob Marotto, Kris Bergstrand
Nuisance Animal Noise:
Review and Discussion
1. Introductions and Subject Introduction:
Bob explained history of complaints of noise from rooster crowing from two
county residents, leading to creation of ASAB subcommittee investigation and
report.
2. Agenda Approval: Unanimously approved.
3. Report Background and Findings:
Suzanne gave summary of the subcommittee activity. Data collected from
other NC counties and input from attorney Annette Moore resulted in a
recommendation of no change to local animal noise ordinance to include
roosters, however, the subcommittee proposed that the situation be monitored
going forward, as it possible more issues like this will arise
4. Legal Considerations:
Zoning of much of the county is combined farm/residential, including locations
of property of concerned citizens. Annette explained the Sheriff’s decision not
to cite rooster owner for noise above 50 db as was measured in one case. Also
Dave described the broadening of the definition of “farm and/or farming”
during last two sessions of the state General Assembly. This, and the findings
of no consistent enforcement of animal noise-related laws in nearby counties
contributed to the decision of the subcommittee. As more folks move to
county, there will be more cases of “coming to the nuisance” and current laws
favor the farmers.
5. General Discussion:
APB members expressed appreciation for work done by the subcommittee and
agreed that this is an ongoing issue as more residential development takes place
in the county, however, since the laws favor the farmers, not much can be done
except encourage potential home buyers to be aware of how the protections
farm operations have in the county. While existing agricultural operations are
reluctant to give out information to the public inquiring as to potential noise or
odor issues, the tax office can give potential buyers information about use of
adjacent properties that could affect home sites they may be looking to
purchase.
Farmers keeping roosters can get advice on proper housing and insulation from
the state Ag Cooperative Extension service also.
6. Nuisance Animal Noise Going Forward:
APB will look into including information on the county website related to
farm/residential zoning so that potential buyers of county residences can be
informed about potential for noise, odor, clear-cutting, etc. (Dave and/or Bob
to contact Carla Banks about putting information on website). The ASAB will
continue be available for public input on animal noise issues.
7. Continuing ASAB and APD Collaboration:
Both groups want to coordinate rapid response to emergencies involving farm
animals/large animals. Examples given were transport truck accident,
especially on major highway and livestock loose on roads due to fence
breakdown and/or sever weather. A truck accident on I-40 would have 911 first
responders present, and many of those folks have connections to local farmers.
APB is familiar with most areas in the county and contacts neighboring farmers
in emergencies it assist with managing loose livestock. They will plan to
update contact information.