City to consider wording on cats and dogs

CLOVIS — The Clovis city commission will consider clearing up language on what it means for cats and dogs to run at large and decide on whether to accept a negotiation on property liens.

According to the ordinance up for introduction at today’s 5:15 p.m. meeting at the Clovis-Carver Public Library, “running at large” would mean the presence of a cat or dog that is off the property of the owner and not in an enclosed area on the owner’s property. The animals would not be considered running at large if they are on a leash no longer than 6 feet that is under control of someone physically able to control it. Under the ordinance, a voice command does not meet the definition of control.

There are exceptions for police canine units, times a park is designated for the animals (i.e. the Bark for Life fundraiser at Hillcrest Park) or the animal is participating in an authorized animal show or training program.

The ordinance also bars animals in the Clovis Municipal Airport terminal or landing area, with the exception of service dogs and animals shipped on air carriers.

The commission will also consider a $2,021.50 payment to settle a pair of outstanding liens a citizen owes after he purchased properties in a 2012 Curry County tax sale.

Other items on today’s agenda include:

• Renewal of a professional services contract with Capitol Consultants of Albuquerque with costs not to exceed $54,500 for the year. The company advocates for the city on state and federal matters.

• Final adoption of an ordinance for a $4.5 million loan agreement for street improvements. The money is designated for Seventh Street work from Norris to Maple streets.

• A request from High Plains Motor Speedway to use a front end loader from the Clovis Municipal Airport to clear crashed vehicles off the track during races and to help prepare the track overall. Airport management has no objection, provided the loader is used properly.

• Renewal of city attorney services with Greig and Richards. The hourly rate for legal services will increase from $185 to $200 per hour. Costs of secretarial services and copy services through the office remain unchanged.

• Appointment of John King to the civil aviation board.