To the editor:
The Municipality of Neebing prides itself on being a rural outdoor mecca of endless opportunities. Yet they continue to try to restrict residents' lifestyles, especially if you are a dog owner.
After presenting almost 200 signatures of residents opposed to the new animal noise bylaw 914-2011, council members still voted in favour of the new bylaw.
Since the by-aw states that "Noise shall mean persistent barking, calling, whining, or making other noises by animals," it is my understanding that this noise bylaw pertains to any animal making persistent noise on their property during the night.
This is ludicrous, considering the fact that we live in a rural environment surrounded by wildlife and farm animals. Now elected council members are considering amending the definition of the current by-law 860-2010, pertaining to dog kennels. My understanding of the additions they would like to implement would include other dogs besides for the reason of breeding commercially.
This would mean that if any resident has more than two dogs, that they may use recreationally for hunting, security, raising, tracking, or mushing, they would be considered a dog kennel.
They will have to apply for a kennel license and get permission from their neighbours. People live in Neebing because they want rural living, without the constraints of urban life.
People want the freedom to enjoy their properties and the amazing opportunities that the Municipality of Neebing has to offer. Families wish to enjoy a lifestyle created and create memories for the next generation to embrace.
So why would a rural community, largely consisting of farmers, hunters, outdoor enthusiasts and people who enjoy living away from the confines of city life want more restrictions on their lifestyle? Before we settled in Neebing, almost a year ago, we researched many areas in Northwestern Ontario.
We chose Neebing because of the many opportunities it had for our family. We want our children to grow up in a rural community, where we can practice our cultural and traditional ways. One of those practices is dogsledding. We have always had dogs and they are members of our family.
Our children have been raised with the dogsledding culture. It is a cultural practice and is part of our families’ traditions. It is a means of spending time on the land, as a family, including our dogs. With this amendment to the dog kennel bylaw, we believe our way of life will be threatened.
We are very disappointed that Council has supported these complaints, without public knowledge or coming to talk to us. The Noise bylaw was passed without many Neebing residents knowing anything about it, and many residents believe the same will happen. This Amendment will affect so many individuals in Neebing, which are law abiding, tax paying voters.
We encourage people to attend the public meeting on Wednesday, April 18, 2012 at 5:30 p.m. at the municipal office at 4766 Hwy. 61.
If you can't make it, write a letter to express your opinion before Wednesday. We ask that you carefully read the proposed amendments and think of how they will affect all residents in the Municipality of Neebing. As an elected council, you have the responsibility to serve the majority of the public.
Shanlee Linton,
Neebing
