*Petition for Amending the City Ordinance on Barking Dogs** 
To: Charleston Illinois City Council Address: 520 Jackson Ave Date: 6/2/2024
 Subject: Petition to Amend City Ordinance on Barking Dogs

We, the undersigned, are writing to express our collective concern about the current city ordinance regarding barking dogs/noise ordinance. While we understand the importance of maintaining peace and quiet in our neighborhoods, we believe that the existing regulations are not balanced and fail to consider the needs of responsible pet owners and their canine companions. 

**Proposed Amendments:** 
1. **Allowable Barking Duration:**  
There needs to be a continuous barking period of more than 15 minutes from 7am to 10pm or over 10 mins from 10pm to 7am before intervention is required. This change acknowledges that dogs may bark naturally for short periods without causing significant disturbances.
2. **Grace Periods:** Introduce specific grace periods during the day, such as early morning  7-8:30 and evening 8-9:30, when short bursts of barking are more permissible, reflecting the times when dogs are more active and likely to bark.
3. **Three-Strike Warning System:** Implement a three-strike warning system for reported valid barking complaints. This allows dog owners to rectify the situation before any fines or penalties are imposed. The steps would include: - First Complaint: A warning notice and educational resources on reducing barking. - Second Complaint: A mandatory meeting with animal control to discuss solutions. - Third Complaint: A fine or penalty, as appropriate.
4. **Support and Resources for Dog Owners:** Provide resources and support for dog owners to help manage and reduce excessive barking. This can include information on training classes, behavior modification techniques, and the availability of animal behaviorists.
5. **Clear Definition of Excessive Barking:** Clearly define what constitutes "excessive barking" in the ordinance, considering frequency, duration, and time of day. This clarity will help both pet owners and complainants understand when a violation occurs.

These amendments are designed to foster a more pet-friendly community while still addressing the concerns of those affected by excessive noise. Dogs are integral members of many families, and their natural behaviors should be accommodated within reason. By adopting these changes, the city will demonstrate a commitment to balancing the needs of all residents. 

We, the undersigned, support the proposed amendments and respectfully request that the city council review and revise the current barking dog ordinance accordingly. 

Thank you for your attention to this important matter. We look forward to your positive response and the implementation of a fair and balanced ordinance that respects both pet owners and the wider community. Sincerely, Starr Grubaugh