(a) The Animal Warden or other duly authorized person shall patrol the City and on view shall seize dogs running at large. The Animal Warden shall seize dogs, cats, and other animals which pose a threat to public safety. The Animal Warden shall use all reasonable means to ascertain the owner or harborer of seized animals.
(b) Costs shall be assessed against every animal seized, impounded, housed, fed, euthanized, and/or disposed. Costs shall be the actual amount billed to the City by the county responsible for the animal control services plus all city administration costs. For purposes of this section, administration costs shall mean all costs and expenses incurred by the Police Department, the Director of Public Service and the Director of Law in identifying, capturing, and/or removing animals at large.
(c) Such costs shall be a valid claim in favor of the City against the owner or harborer of the animal seized. The Chief of Police shall send an invoice for payment of costs to the owner or harborer. If payment is not made within thirty days, the claim shall be referred to the Director of Law.
(Ord. 97-2004. Passed 1-13-05.)