A. The Community Services Officer shall issue a notice of potential declaration to the owner of the dog following the guidelines of service found at MLMC 6.10.090. Said notice will include an opportunity for the owner to discuss the action in writing or orally with the Community Services Officer within fourteen (14) calendar days of receipt of the notice.

B. After the discussion or the fourteen (14) day period, whichever comes first, the Community Services Officer shall issue a final decision in the form of either a final declaration or a letter of no finding.

C. If the dog has been impounded due to its actions, such impoundment shall continue during the pendency of the above procedure. The owner shall be responsible for the cost of impoundment regardless of the outcome of the action.

D. The Hearing Examiner in an appeal pursuant to this Chapter can take note of and consider the owner’s failure to discuss the action with the Community Services Officer or failure to raise any and all defenses at the discussion with the Community Services Officer. (Ord. 2757, 3/24/15)