The City of Sedan continues to review its options for housing stray animals after parting ways with the Chautauqua County Animal Shelter.

 

The City opted to discontinue its relationship with the animal shelter in December after shelter officials balked at the idea of having their finances be subject to state open records laws. This left Sedan without a facility to house stray animals. Last month Police Chief Kirk Richardson suggested that the city might open its own shelter. No action was taken on the issue at that meeting, but at the most recent City Council meeting a member of the public voiced his opposition to the proposal.

 

Council Member Adam Clark says the city's hands are tied and they must follow the law.

 

No action was taken again at this week's meeting as the city continues to examine its options on the matter.

 

The issue of open records and open meetings is a fresh concern in Sedan after the USD 286 School Board was found to be in violation of the Kansas Open Meetings Act in September 2024.