SHAMOKIN - After debating the topic for the past several months, the Shamokin Housing Authority board has adopted changes to its policy regarding pets at the Harold E. Thomas Highrise.
The changes were prompted by John Klinger, a handicapped resident who had complained several times about restrictions.
"My pets are my life. They are all I have. I'm prepared to pay the double security deposit and I will have one dog at my apartment and another individual will keep the other," Klinger said at Thursday's meeting.
The changes to the policy are as follows:
- Dogs - Long-haired breed pets are now accepted; maximum weight changed from 25 to 30 pounds; height (at shoulder), changed from 14 to 18 inches; and tenants will be charged a monthly maintenance fee for dogs using the high rise grounds to urinate or defecate.
- Cats - All cats must be neutered/spayed and declawed; maximum weight changed from 13 to 20 pounds.
- Fish - Fish tanks up to 20 gallons are allowed, made of glass or acrylic; in case of breakage, the tenant is responsible for all damages incurred.
- General requirements - All pet owners keeping animals must pay a $300 pet security deposit. Pets are now allowed in the community room as long as they are leashed and under control. Tenants are required to purchase $10,000 of pet liability insurance, pets may visit other units and the authority must give 24 hours notice to inspect any apartments with pets.
The policy was adopted by a 5-0 vote with board members Raymond G. Splane, Suzanne Kopitsky, Pamala S. Rhoades, Robert J. Wolfe and Suzanne Kopitsky voting yes.
In other business
The board approved two resolutions related to the authority's 2014 annual improvement plan: for the plan itself and for certification in order to receive federal funding. Authority Executive Director Ronald Miller said improvements set for next year involve the Harrison Street Townhouses in which the authority will install metal roofs on the second phase of the property and install 19,000 square feet of vinyl flooring.
Miller also updated the board on the 2014 budget. He said because of the budget impasse in Washington, funding levels will remain at the 2012 level or lower.
"We are going to have a barebones budget, with no salary increases and will try to hold the line on health insurance. This way, we can avoid layoffs," Miller said.