During the public‑input portion of the Feb. 13 meeting, resident Daryl Smith asked commissioners to revisit the county’s animal control penalties after a court case stemming from persistent nighttime barking resulted in a $10 fine.

Smith said the ordinance cited in his case is listed as “0‑16‑04” and referred to the 2016 Grant County animal‑control ordinance. He described a magistrate hearing held July 8 of the prior year and said court costs of $132.50 were waived, leaving the enforcement fine reduced to $10. Smith urged the commissioners to increase fines so they “sting a little bit” and act as a deterrent; he suggested raising the fine to $250.

Smith said he had collected more than two months of data, including photos, video and sound recordings, and that the nighttime barking affected his sleep and work. He urged the board to “take under advisement to revise this ordinance,” pointing to a recent November 14, 2024 resolution that adjusted certain licensing fees for guard and dangerous‑animal permits.

Later in the meeting, a commissioner asked county staff to note the request and consider whether the ordinance should be brought back for discussion and a formal review, including any necessary public hearing and legal review. No formal motion to amend the ordinance was made during the Feb. 13 meeting.

The transcript does not record a subsequent staff report or legal analysis; the county attorney and clerk would be responsible for advising on the statutory process required to amend an ordinance, including notice and hearing requirements.