Kiama Council CEO Jane Stroud has responded to reports of a recent letter from Council to Kiama market coordinators saying dogs are prohibited at Food Markets within the Kiama Local Government Area (LGA). The letter was reported in The Bugle 29 January 2022.
“I apologise for the sudden imposition of a new ruling that Council has not yet had the opportunity to discuss or to formally resolve a formal position on,” Ms Stroud said.
The letter to market coordinators stated that dogs are prohibited (whether on or off-leash) within 10 metres of any food preparation/ consumption areas in any public place, within 10 metres of any children’s play area and are not permitted to walk through parks, even on-leash, except via perimeter footpaths.
“While we do need to follow food safety guidelines and the Companion Animals legislation set down by the NSW Government, we also need to be reasonable and practical,” said Ms Stroud.
Ms Stroud also acknowledged that literal application of the rules may not actually be possible due to topography, lack of footpaths or open spaces.
Ms Stroud said the issue would be reviewed via further discussion and a decision by Council, as elected representatives of the community.
Ms Stroud said she would be meeting with market coordinators to apologise in person for the confusing new rules and to discuss two complaints received in May and September 2021.
“I’m hoping that by meeting and listening to the market operators I will get a better understanding of how they manage their leased spaces already, and how we can work with them on a proactive approach to dogs, on or off leash, within their leased market area.”
“After those meetings, a report will head through Council for a decision that staff can then action.”
