What is happening in Kern County?

At the request of the Kern County Board of Supervisors, the Animal Control Commission (Commission) has been working on two issues. The first is the issue of whether or not residents should be allowed to keep large numbers of animals in Kern County. The second issue is whether or not there should be a mandatory spay/neuter ordinance in Kern County and the sponsoring of low cost spay/neuter programs for animals.

The Commission has considered these issues and has conducted 10 workshops throughout Kern County. Based on the public comments received at the workshops, the proposal has been changed. The current version is here.

After information is received through the public workshop process, the Animal Control Commission will further consider the matter and make any additional changes it deems appropriate. Zoning Ordinance changes will be referred to the Planning Commission for consideration.

After Planning Commission review and action, the report including all recommended changes will be referred to the Board of Supervisors for their consideration and action. Although it is too early to predict when that will happen, it will likely be no sooner than the first quarter of calendar year 2008.

   We encourage as many people as possible to attend the Kern County meetings.  The next meeting is set for the 21st of November at 6:00 pm.  Yes, we did confirm and as of 11/19, the meeting will be held even though it is the night before Thanksgiving.  Last month (October) there was not a quorum which may be why they are holding this one despite the Holiday.