Local officials are continuing to consider rabbit regulations, and more input is being sought, it was announced at a Great Bend City Council meeting this week.
City Attorney Bob Suelter explained that he continues to gather information about the issue, but the council seemed to lean towards the suggestion that fewer rabbits is better, when they are housed outdoors.
The issue was brought to the council recently and it was noted that currently there are no provisions for legally keeping rabbits in outdoor hutches in Great Bend and that presents a problem, if there is a growth in the 4-H rabbit program. It’s suggested that raising rabbits is a good way for youth living in the city limits to get experience in showing livestock,
However it will raise some issues the city will have to consider, such as — whether the permits are annual; how facilities are to be inspected; whether they should only be inspected if there are complaints; how many rabbits can be kept in one location; what sanitary measures will be required; and more.
Councilman Ken Roberts, who represents the city on the Humane Society board, reported that he has begun discussions with that organization and will continue to meet with them before reporting back at the next council meeting.
So far. Roberts said, the consensus seems to be that local residents who want to keep rabbits inside their houses should be able to continue to do so, just as they do now.
Outside housing of four rabbits for a youth project was deemed appropriate, however if more than four are kept, it was suggested that there be a regulation similar to the kennel permit system currently used involving dogs. All of that continues under discussion, however, Roberts noted.
As the numbers continue to increase, Suelter suggested an in-town facility could approach an agricultural production site, which presents problems, and that would have to be addressed if a permitting system is developed.
Councilman Randy Myers suggested that if a local resident wants to keep four or fewer rabbits outdoors, there shouldn’t even need to be a permit.
The issue will continue under consideration and will be returned to a later council meeting, it was noted.