Residents of Morriston and surrounding areas voiced strong opposition during a recent government meeting regarding a special use permit (SUP) application by Miss Dory Loprier for a kennel and sanctuary on her property. Concerns were raised about the potential impact on local safety, property values, and animal welfare.

Community members expressed alarm over reports of aggressive dogs roaming freely since Loprier began her kennel activities. One resident recounted witnessing a white pit bull running loose near their home, raising fears for the safety of children and pets in the area. Others highlighted a troubling history of animal control issues, including 180 citations issued to Loprier over the past four years for various violations, including the lack of required rabies vaccinations.

Residents also questioned the adequacy of current county regulations, noting that Marion County lacks a legal definition of animal hoarding, which complicates enforcement. Many argued that without a clear ordinance limiting the number of animals one can own, the situation could worsen, allowing for unchecked growth of similar operations in the future.

Concerns extended beyond animal control to environmental issues, with residents worried about waste management and the potential for disease transmission to livestock. The floodplain status of the property was also a significant point of contention, with fears that improper waste disposal could lead to contamination.

Several speakers called for the denial of the SUP, urging the county to relocate the animals to a more suitable environment where they could be properly managed. They emphasized the need for a comprehensive review of animal ordinances to protect both residents and animals in the community.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the community remains deeply divided over the proposed kennel, with many residents advocating for stricter regulations to ensure their safety and quality of life. The county's decision on the SUP will likely set a precedent for future animal-related operations in the area.