03/22/2006: "Pit Bulls or Poodles?"

At a recent meeting the County Council was embroiled in discussion about dogs. Councilman Ranker was in a gruff mood after growling and snapping at the Prosecuting Attorney. Kevin was like a Pit Bull wearing a spiked collar as he barked, "You don't have the authority to cancel hearings!" "Woof! Woof! Woof!" went the tirade.

I give Randy credit for remaining cool and calm during the long angry outburst. But the entire scene gave me insight into the struggle for power that lies just under the surface at the Courthouse.

A majority of people voted in favor of the Charter. I do not pretend to know why voters did this and do not want to get into speculation about the reasons to try and make a point. It is the law now. The fact that the Charter limits the power of the Council is hard for some of the present members to swallow. Trying to bite the hand of the Prosecutor as he reaches out to help is a symptom of frustration with the changes that are afoot. Feel free to disagree with my analysis. I could be wrong. Let's get back to the dogs.

The recent popularity of lamb-flavored kibbles is not to blame for dog attacks on sheep. You can find evidence of dogs chasing sheep as far back in history as you want to go. Dogs just do this. Livestock owners in San Juan County need real cooperation from dog owners. The regulations need teeth.

Should some breeds of dogs be banned from the Islands? "No", Kevin yapped. "Poodles are responsible for more attacks on people than Pit Bulls. Pit Bulls are in sixth or seventh place on the list".

Now this caused my jaw to drop. First off, I thought we were talking about livestock attacks. Secondly, the poodle of choice amongst islanders is the toy version. I just can't picture a pack of toy poodles prancing around chasing sheep or Alpacas. (I thought Alpacas were related to poodles just bigger).

I was relieved when Councilman Lichter jumped in to defend the Poodles. "Now just hold on there." he said, "Poodles don't have the same weapons that Pit Bulls have. When they decide to go after something they don't have the same capacity to do damage".

And that is exactly my point. The Charter is like a muzzle to keep the big dogs from biting. The Council Members have been neutered. They are no longer Pit Bulls to be feared because of the damage they can cause. The people want the milder gentler Poodle-like qualities in their leaders. And the people are patient. They understand that it might take time for them to get the idea. But they will get it eventually.

And one final thought. The last meeting was conducted on the floor level. It was the first time I can recall when the Council was not sitting high and mighty on the podium above the Administrator and the people. So I urge the Chairman to fulfill his campaign promise and "Tear Down That Wall!"