![\"Tenaja](\"https:\/\/www.send2press.com\/wire\/images\/17-0411-Tenaja-600x450.jpg\")
\n\u201cWhen Ordinance 630 was first written, there were more open spaces than there are today. Now, those same spaces are home to residential and equine neighborhoods and while the area has changed, the ordinance has not,\u201d Scott Becker, resident and active member of the Tenaja Environmental Concerns Association, says.<\/p>\n
As a result, TECA members are asking the county to implement additional conditions before issuing new kennel permits.<\/p>\n
\u201cMany counties and cities throughout the U.S. provide for stringent restrictions such as distance and zoning requirements before a kennel permit is approved,\u201d Becker says. \u201cIssuing kennel permits in pre-existing residential communities is unfair and unjust to residents and surrounding property owners.\u201d<\/p>\n
According to TECA members, kennels create the likely potential for a noise nuisance, undue stress and possible health concerns. They significantly decrease surrounding property values and pose a danger to children, domestic pets and horses. These residents also feel that kennels do not belong in the sensitive Santa Rosa Plateau area as the noise, feces and introduction of too many dogs disrupts the natural environment and wildlife.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019re asking the county to recognize the rights of its citizens and to protect sensitive ecological areas. The current and very antiquated ordinance needs to be amended to provide more protection to the residents of Riverside County,\u201d Becker says. \u201cOther surrounding areas such as the City of Riverside, Kern County and San Bernardino County have already updated their ordinance to recognize and define\u00a0kennels as a commercial use, which would be a prohibited use in residential areas.<\/p>\n
A public hearing is scheduled before the County Board of Supervisors on April 25, 2017<\/strike> (moved to May 2) at 9 a.m.; Riverside County Building, 4080 Lemon Street, 1st floor. Transportation and carpooling are being provided to the hearing. To schedule a ride, call: 951-660-2586.<\/p>\n