LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – Lubbock’s city council members hope to address the stray animal problem they say is a growing issue.
David Glasheen of District Three and Dr. Jennifer Wilson of District Five proposed an ordinance to require breeders to obtain a permit that must be updated annually. It also raises the “dangerous dog” liability insurance coverage from $250,000 to $1 million.
The ordinance passed by a four to three vote.
Mayor Mark McBrayer says he looks forward to continuously working with the City to find different ways to solve this issue.
“We do need to look to our staff to help us find the right solution, but at the end of the day we are the ones who have to make those decisions,” he said. “So, part of it is you see some of the decisions we made today were from the recommendations from our staff, so we will make the recommendations seriously. I believe we can trust them to help us make the best decisions.”
Council members also chose to keep a grant for fence repairs for pet owners. While they were expected to move funding to add an animal control officer for weekend shifts. However, the ordinance failed.
Steven Greene, director of Lubbock Animal Shelter, says he is thankful for the community’s support.
“It was amazing to see so many people come out and support us,” Greene said. “It really gives us a boost at times with this job. Your morale gets low and you get beat down, so that was really refreshing to see so many people from many different walks of life come out and support us like they did.”
The city council is expected to take up this topic again. Representatives hope to continue to search for the best way to help animals find a forever home and not be on the street.
Copyright 2025 KCBD. All rights reserved.
Senegal
