Town of Eston council nixes dog pound at municipal shop

By Stu Salkeld
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Your West Central Voice

ESTON – The Town of Eston council decided against using a municipal building as a dog pound facility. The decision was made at the July 14 regular meeting of council.

In a phone call with Your West Central Voice newspaper July 22, Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Jody Irwin stated she reported to council that Eston's animal control bylaw grants permission to use Eston's town shop as a dog pound if a dog catcher is hired. However, the CAO related that councillors felt this wasn't the time to approve such a use as the facility isn't equipped as a dog pound and no dog catcher has been hired.

Irwin noted councillors also observed other issues with the idea, including the safety and comfort of dogs kept there and safety of town staff. Irwin stated town staff will continue to look for a dog catcher, but she noted that she recently spent about five hours on the phone trying to find such a service for Eston with no success.

Dog complaint

Councillors also discussed a resident letter complaining about dogs running at large in Eston. The CAO noted this resident had recently attended a town hall meeting hosted by Eston where dog control issues were discussed.

Irwin stated councillors wanted to respond to the writer that at this time town staff are doing all they can to control dogs running at large in town.

Building permit

Councillors approved a building permit application for 114 4th Ave. S.E.; Irwin noted property owners plan to build an addition on their house.

Tax enforcement

Councillors approved moving ahead with tax enforcement on Lot 15 Block 15 with the CAO noting this process is entering its final stage; however, Irwin noted that the property owner can at any time before the final transfer of title come forward and pay the outstanding taxes.

Irwin stated the town is always willing to talk to property owners about unpaid taxes rather than go through tax enforcement, and she also noted payment plans are available.

Health committee

The town appointed a councillor to the health committee that also includes the R.M. of Snipe Lake and health officials. The committee works with health officials on health-related issues facing the communities.

Motocross track

Councillors reviewed the vacant motocross track on the edge of town. Councillors previously voiced interest in having a community group step forward to maintain and run the track but the CAO noted as of the council meeting that hadn't happened.

By-election

The CAO noted that councillors decided to let summer run its course before the necessary by-election is held; Irwin observed the by-election will be held in October, with the month of September for the campaign.

Sidewalk repairs

Sidewalks in Eston that have drainage issues are being repaired, confirmed the CAO. Irwin stated the work is progressing nicely. She added that sidewalks that have drainage problems are a priority due to the liability involved, and other sidewalks may have to wait for repair.

Tree branch

Councillors read a letter of complaint from a resident about a problematic tree branch. However, Irwin stated the tree is an elm so cutting it will require some planning to avoid harming the tree. She added that town staff are aware of the problem and are working on it.