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Stafford County SPCA looks for approval from the Planning Commission Date published: 4/1/2009
BY JONAS BEALS
A proposed Stafford County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals facility off Andrew Chapel Road faces another hurdle at tonight's Planning Commission meeting. After a public hearing, commissioners will vote on whether or not to approve a conditional use permit to allow an SPCA to operate on the site. A final decision will be made by the Board of Supervisors. The parcel is the former location of the Brooke Nursing Center--a 10.2-acre lot zoned for agricultural use in the Aquia District. The nursing home shut down in 2006, and William Hoyt purchased the property last summer under the business name "Muddy Paws LLC." The SPCA was not allowed under the existing zoning. Hoyt hopes the county will grant him a conditional use permit. "For our purposes, this is freaking awesome," said Hoyt as he looked out over the downward-sloping meadow behind the old nursing home. He has grand plans. Stakes and orange ribbons outline the footprint of a no-kill shelter with state-of-the-art kennels, walking paths, a public dog park and a wildlife rehab center, among many proposed amenities. Hoyt is confident those orange ribbons will become buildings. He said the community has been generally supportive, but not entirely. Denuded trees on the property line reveal nearby houses. Some neighbors are concerned about having an SPCA nearby. Michelle Clay owns 70 acres that abut Hoyt's property. She plans to speak against the proposed SPCA tonight. "We see a boatload of problems," she said. "Without question, it would hurt our property values." Clay fears that noise, odors, increased traffic and lighting could affect nearby homeowners. In her mind, county officials should do all they can to preserve the value of the large homes nearby. "I totally support the SPCA," she said. "Just don't put it behind my million-dollar house." Supervisor Paul Milde said he had not heard from anyone opposed to the facility. He supports the project. In fact, the county is the acting applicant for Hoyt, a move that shows general support from the supervisors and saves Hoyt application fees. County staff is recommending that the Planning Commission approve the permit.
Read more stories about Stafford Date published: 4/1/2009
As a resident I have witnessed more dogs running loose and barking for a very long time just to hear themselves bark. It makes upset to hear them (residents) complain about a shelter that will save lifes and make a difference in our community while they have no regard for their own animals. Look in the mirroe because one day it just may be your animal needing to shelter to stay alive instead of being slaughterred.
As a resident of meadowbrook estates I fully support the SPCA proposal. I have seen and heard more dogs run loose and bark for hours in my neighborhood that it makes me sick to hear the other residents complain about such a important facility. We must come together as a community, county to help save these animals that are victims of cruelity. Next they will probably want to close the Brooke VRE station because the trains are to loud, give me a break people, do the right thing and support this proposal..
And if it weren't for the multitude of idiots in this world who abuse animals, breed them without concern, and let them run loose in the street LITERALLY--there would be no need for a compassionate, no kill, long term care shelter for these poor animals. And let's not even mention those that move and leave the poor things behind. Get a grip people. Our community includes animals ,and the truly good and intelligent people realize they have to step up and take responsibility for the irresponsible ones!
Mr. Hoyt for standing up for the animals who can't speak for themselves and standing up to million dollar home owners who have destroyed natural habitats for animals by having such large homes to begin with. We do need another no kill shelter in Virginia and many people will stand behind you. Seek the advise of the Fredericksburg SPCA and see the support they have from animal lovers. Follow your dream. Ps,I am glad to know the Nursing Home is no longer there. Those residents had no voice either.
Stafford can cut the tax bills of surrounding houses. The county can also send out ear plugs to the neighbors so they can sleep.
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