A lengthy discussion was held this past Monday at the most recent Greene County Board of Supervisors meeting about an update to an existing policy.

County Attorney Thomas Laehn said in 2007, the Greene County Supervisors at that time approved as part of a policy for the courthouse building and grounds that prohibited all animals, except for guide animals, in the courthouse or on the surrounding grounds. Laehn pointed out that was a template provided by the Iowa State Association of Counties to limit liability claims against the county, which several other Iowa counties also approved. 

The current Supervisors were considering continuing that policy, but updating it with current federal law that allows service animals, such as dogs and miniature horses. At this past Monday’s meeting, several residents voiced their concerns, including pet owners not picking up after their pet goes to the bathroom. Kristen Lang is the owner of Warm Wishes on the downtown square and she lives in the upper story apartment of her business with her partner Clancy Clausen and their dog. 

“A few of us spoke to the individuals that were on the Board back in 2007 and they did not remember an animal ban being discussed or being a selling point of the courthouse grounds policy, and it now seems to be a major point of the policy. I’m asking you to reframe and focus on the root issue. The courthouse grounds policy should allow pets and require people to pick up after them.”    

Following the discussion, Supervisor Chair John Muir gave his assessment.

“There will be limitations of some level. I understand with what’s trying to be created downtown here, maybe some of those limitations are out of place, out of time now.” 

The Board tabled taking action on the policy, pending further review and possible changes before it is finalized.