In a spirited council meeting on Tuesday night, residents of West Mifflin erupted into applause and cheers as council members swiftly moved to reject a controversial proposal aimed at imposing limits on pet ownership within the borough.
The proposal, which sought to restrict the number of pets individuals could own, drew immediate backlash from the community. Hundreds of concerned residents packed the council chambers, voicing their opposition to the ordinance.
“We want to vote tonight. We want it voted down,” one resident passionately shouted, capturing the sentiment of the crowd.
Councilmember Karen Santoro initially moved to table the ordinance at the beginning of the meeting, prompting further uproar from attendees who were vehemently against any form of pet restriction.
“I did not propose or write this ordinance. We don’t want to take your pets. That’s not on the table,” clarified Santoro amidst the chaos.
Acknowledging the overwhelming public sentiment, council members took decisive action and voted to discard the ordinance within the first half-hour of the meeting.
“The public has spoken, and this borough council has listened,” affirmed Solicitor Phil DiLucente, who had originally suggested the now-abandoned pet ordinance.
The proposed ordinance would have capped the number of pets per household, potentially forcing many responsible pet owners, like Emily Booth, to choose between their beloved animals.
“I actually just felt a wave of relief,” Booth expressed emotionally. “I’m very emotional, obviously. I love my animals.”
Emily Booth, who owns four dogs, chickens, and exotic animals, was among the many relieved residents who feared having to part with pets they consider family members.
Kelsey Gross, another resident, echoed similar sentiments, highlighting how pets are integral members of her household.
“I have three dogs and two cats, but I also have five pond fish,” Gross shared. “This ordinance doesn’t discriminate when it comes to animals. I’m definitely happy.”
In addition to the pet ownership limits, a separate proposal to restrict the number of chickens residents could keep was also struck down during the meeting.
Council members acknowledged flaws in the proposed regulations and assured the community that there were no plans to reintroduce similar ordinances in the future.
The swift and resolute action by the West Mifflin Borough Council underscored the importance of community feedback in local governance decisions, ensuring that residents’ concerns were heard and respected.
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