In a recent government meeting, community members voiced strong opposition to a proposed animal sanctuary in Morriston, citing concerns over safety, noise, and property values. Residents expressed fears that the sanctuary, which would house both cats and dogs, could disrupt the tranquility of their neighborhood, known for its natural beauty and wildlife.

Jennifer Sauters Boyle, a neighboring property owner, raised alarms about the potential for aggressive dogs to pose a threat to local wildlife and children. She recounted personal experiences with the sanctuary's dogs, including incidents where they had trespassed onto her property. Other residents echoed her sentiments, highlighting the sanctuary's impact on their quality of life, with complaints about noise from barking dogs disrupting the peace.

John Berkeley read a letter from a nearby resident, Dr. Tanya Shulman, which emphasized concerns about floodplain safety and the behavior of the dogs. Carmelita Halczyk, another local resident, expressed her distress over reports of dogs attacking gopher tortoises, a protected species in the area, and questioned how the sanctuary would manage the care of sick or deceased animals.

In response, Dory Locriore, the sanctuary's owner, defended her operations, asserting that her dogs had not harmed any wildlife and that she maintained proper care for her animals. She invited neighbors to visit her property to dispel rumors about odors and animal welfare. Locriore also criticized the community's fears as unfounded, suggesting that misinformation had fueled opposition to her sanctuary.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further discussions, as the Board of County Commissioners prepares to review the sanctuary's proposal. Residents remain concerned about the implications for their community, emphasizing the need for regulations to ensure safety and preserve the area's character. The next meeting is anticipated to draw even more public interest as the debate continues.