Discussions regarding the nuisance party ordinance and an address looking at Uptown violence took place at the Athens City Council meeting last night.
Athens County Prosecutor C. David Warren addressed council members about recent violent Uptown incidents. Athens Mayor Ric Abel and Athens Police Chief Richard Mayer are heading a task force to help the violence subside. Many recent cases, such as the Terris Ross homicide and the stabbing during Halloween weekend at a Days Inn on Columbus Road, are under investigation.
Council members also discussed the nuisance party ordinance, which was read for the first time last night.
Councilman Dale Tampke, D-at-large, said that he had received several complaints regarding noise.
People are telling me that they are tired of the noise and trash. Residents are asking for some semblance of calm and quiet
he said.
Councilman Paul Wiehl, D-1st Ward, and City and County Affairs Commissioner for Student Senate Jonathan Wehrman both said they wanted landlords to be more involved in the ramifications of nuisance party citations.
There are certain houses that are constantly problematic and as the ordinance is I don't think that it will help this problem Wehrman said.
In other council news, Athens resident Kate McGuckin, a member of the Athens Coalition for Companion Animals, voiced her concern about the possibility of an animal retailer moving into a lot on East State Street.
The coalition is concerned because many of the animals that are sold from animal retailers come from puppy mills or kitty mills
McGuckin said.
The group tries to educate residents about pet overpopulation. According to statistics provided by McGuckin, 1,068 dogs in Athens were put to sleep in 2003, up from approximately 900 dogs in 2002. Up to 300 cats are euthanized each month in Athens, she said.
The group, which sent out a petition and received 836 signatures from people concerned about retail sales of animals, wants to promote a proactive form of legislation and possibly a mandatory spay/neuter program, McGuckin said.
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