Presenter
Presented by Mr. Hertzberg
In Committee on Public Works & Environmental Services, Sept. 19, 2001
Affirmative Recommendation
Title
Resolution authorizing and directing the Solicitor of the City of Pittsburgh to establish a working committee to draft legislation which will regulate the possession of wild animals.
Body
Whereas, recent events showcase the dangers inherent in private citizens owning and caring for wild animals in an urban setting; and,
Whereas, it is in the public interest to ensure health, safety and welfare by regulating those wild animals which pose a possibility of endangering the physical safety of human beings;
Be it Resolved that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh hereby enacts as follows:
Section 1. The Council of the City of Pittsburgh authorizes and directs the Solicitor of the City of Pittsburgh to establish a working committee to draft legislation that will regulate the possession of wild animals.
The committee should consist of, but not be limited to, the City Administration, the Department of Public Safety, the Allegheny County Administration, and representatives from the Pittsburgh Zoo, the Pittsburgh Aviary, animal rights groups and any other experts or entities deemed germane to the issue of possessing wild animals in an urban setting.
The committee should consider the licensing and inspection of individuals, facilities or agencies possessing wild animals and whether certain animals should be prohibited because of their nature, habits or protected status.