WICOMICO COUNTY EXECUTIVE JULIE GIORDANO ISSUES VETO ON LEGISLATIVE BILL 2025-01 IMPACTING KENNEL OWNERS

Wicomico County, MD - Wicomico County Executive Julie Giordano has vetoed Legislative Bill 2025-01. The bill, designed to enforce a 1,000 feet distance between dog kennels and residential dwellings, has stirred discontent among local kennel owners and residents alike due to its potential economic ramifications.

Giordano, upon vetoing the bill, expressed her concerns over the hardships that the bill might impose on kennel owners. "This legislation places an unrealistic and unfair burden on our county's kennel owners," stated Giordano.

She further pointed out that enforcing this bill might result in shutting down long-standing businesses or pushing them into costly and impractical relocations.

The County Executive vetoed this bill after hearing numerous concerns from kennel owners and community members.

These kennel owners and community members were mainly worried about the lack of any grandfathering provisions for existing businesses and the absence of feasible alternatives to meet the intended goals of this bill.

The County Executive gave her reasons for the veto as follows:

• No existing kennel meets the new requirement, meaning every kennel would be out of compliance in three years.
• Financial and logistical hardships for small business owners, who may not have the resources to relocate.
• Economic consequences, including potential job losses and reduced access to pet care services for county residents.
• Lack of stakeholder input, as the amendment was passed without full engagement from affected business owners.

As a result, the County Executive is urging the County Council to reconsider the legislation, calling for a cooperative effort with kennel owners, residents, and the planning and zoning department. The goal is to develop a fairer approach that can safeguard both business interests and community concerns.

Giordano appealed, "I urge the Council to reconsider this legislation and engage with all stakeholders before making a decision that could have such a devastating impact on our local businesses." She believes that a balanced solution supporting responsible kennel operations and addressing residents' needs can be achieved.

Following the veto, the bill will return to the County Council. The upcoming County Council meeting scheduled for February 18, 2025, where this matter is expected to be discussed further, is of crucial importance.

The Council is likely to hold a vote on the bill during this meeting. Citizens are encouraged to attend this meeting to ensure their voices are heard, and their concerns can be addressed to the members of the elected County Council.