WARREN Warren City Council had been scheduled to consider legislation this week that would update the city's animal control policy addressing the number of dogs and cats residents can keep. The ordinance, which would have replaced a law that covers only dogs, was deleted from an updated council agenda issued on Monday.

Councilwoman Honey Price, who introduced the measure, told 21 News that she is reviewing the legislation to ensure it reflects "the needs and values of our community."   "It is crucial to not rush before making a commitment," Price said in an emailed statement.

Currently, Warren has an ordinance from 2003 that limits the number of dogs a resident can keep.

Under the proposal, anyone keeping more than four dogs and/or four cats within city limits would be required to register as an animal harborer. The Warren City Health Department would process the registration.

The process would require residents to apply annually between Dec. 1 and Jan. 31, providing details about each animal, including age, sex, color, hair character, and breed if known. A $15 fee would be required for the application.

Before approving registration, the Warren City Health Department would inspect the premises to ensure they meet conditions for housing the animals. Once approved and the fee paid, a certificate of registration would be issued. The certificates would be valid for the calendar year they are issued, plus the 31 days of the following year.

The ordinance also stated that violations would result in a misdemeanor for a first offense, escalating to a misdemeanor for each offense.

The city's law department requested the change, citing the need for a policy for pet ownership in Warren.

Price says council may take the issue up again next month.