Sussex Borough approves funds for dog census

SUSSEX BOROUGH — The Sussex Borough Council unanimously approved an agreement not to exceed $1,750 for a borough-wide 2015 dog census with Vernon Township on Feb. 3.

Animal Control Officer Tom Maellaro told the Council that they go door to door. If the dog's rabies shots are up to date, the owner can pay for the license at the door.

“What you get in revenue will far exceed what you pay,” he said.

Mayor Jonathan Rose explained that the dog census is required by the state.

Dog barking incident
Maellaro also reported to the Sussex Borough Council about a barking dog incident on Bank Street.

He explained he cannot write a complaint until he witnesses the dog barking; and he has personally gone to the scene several times.

He also said that in his 23 years, he rarely has a complaint which causes him to have to come to the council.

Maellaro said a resident at 53 Banks St. filed a complaint in Wantage Municipal Court and then dismissed it. Since the signed complaint was dismissed, it did not go forward, and there was no court order to enforce.

Rose said wondered if Maellaro got the neighbors to talk.

Maellaro explained that there is bad blood there.

Typically, with a neighbor dispute when he goes out, it only “fuels the fire,” he said.

Rose also asked if Maellaro felt the Sussex Borough ordinance was adequate for these instances.

Maellaro said the ordinance is sufficient because if a dog barks in Sussex Borough, it is in violation. He contrasted Vernon's ordinance, which requires one half-hour of continuous barking to be in violation.

“If I sit in front of a house for half an hour, I will cause a dog to bark,” he said.

Borough Attorney Francis J. McGovern asked about filing the complaint and calling the two or three neighbors as witnesses, firsthand in court.

“If they show up at court to accompany the ticket, I have no problem signing my name to it,” Maellaro said.