Dear Editor,
As the second reading for the Barrhead Animal Control bylaws approaches, there are still many issues that remain problematic in the newest draft of the revised bylaws. To name one, the “vigilante” clause still exists, giving inappropriate authority for citizens of Barrhead to trap or capture animals at their own risk, as well as at the risk of the animals themselves.
There are also issues around the follow up and responsibility of the Town of Barrhead that have still not been addressed in the wording of the bylaws, in that there is no formal contract or location recognized for the intake and processing of animals captured and detained by the Town’s Peace Officer.
This is plainly, irresponsible, and sets an unhealthy precedent with citizens about being responsible and complying with these bylaws to begin with. There are a great deal of other issues that are still present with these bylaws that will need to be explored and discussed further at length. BARS does not feel the bylaws are appropriate enough at present to pass their second reading, as many of the viewpoints of citizens have been overlooked or not considered at all in the revisions.
Barrhead Animal Rescue Society (BARS) still wishes to be a part of this discussion to ensure that the ensuing bylaws created are appropriate, meaningful and relevant to the citizens of Barrhead, as well as meaningful to the goals of the society itself. On August 12th, BARS encourages all their volunteers as well as the public to come forward to voice their concerns about the bylaws in their current draft at this meeting.
Kyla Coulman-Absher
