A popular kennel in Miami County may soon be allowed to expand after members of the Miami County Planning Commission last week recommended approval of a conditional use permit (CUP) for the accommodation and dog training kennel south of Osawatomie.
The issue was discussed at the Sept. 6 meeting of the Miami County Planning Commission. Owners Dwight and Kathy Clark applied for CUP for the Free Spirit kennels located on approximately 13 acres approximately 850 feet north of 391st Street on the west side of Plum Creek Road just north of Beagle.
Kathy Clark said she started the operation last June and word of her services spread quickly.
“It was extremely successful,” said Kathy Clark. “I had to turn many, many dogs away.”
County regulations do not require a conditional use permit in the rural zoning district for kennels with less than four dogs per week, excluding personal pets, which is why the kennel had no no prior permit required.
Kathy Clark said the facility has air-conditioned kennels with 15-foot runs, as well as a large, fenced-in exercise area.
A few residents spoke at the public hearing, and all were supportive of the company. Neighboring owner Lisa Jones said she uses the kennel for her dogs when they travel.
“The care they receive there is exceptional,” Jones said. “I would recommend this kennel to anyone.”
Planning director Teresa Reeves had no objection to CUP’s request.
“It’s a really nice, clean, well-maintained property,” Reeves said.
The Planning Commissioners have recommended CUP approval with a number of conditions, including:
The number of dogs housed on the property is limited to 22, excluding the owner’s personal animals.
The property must be developed in accordance with the concept plan and the applicant must have a professional site plan prepared for the county commission meeting.
The UPC is exclusive to the kennel and is not transferable.
The development must comply with all applicable sanitary, building, fire and other county codes and permit requirements.
The incineration of animal waste on the property is prohibited.
The facility must remain current with all required licenses and remain in good standing with the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Division of Animal Health, and United States Department of Agriculture.
Final approval must come from the Miami County Commission, which is due to review the matter Oct. 5.
:format(webp)/https://www.therecord.com/content/dam/therecord/news/waterloo-region/2022/10/17/wellesleys-updates-to-dog-kennel-bylaws-a-new-standard/wagner_shelley.jpg)