Letter to the Editor: Competing with the Neighbors Doesn’t Define My Character

Abbott’s German Shepherds, located on Jean Drive in Thunderbird Farms, faces scrutiny regarding its operations and compliance with county regulations. Residents Chad and Katie Buhr have raised concerns about the kennel’s alignment with existing zoning codes.

According to Pinal County regulations, commercial kennels in suburban ranch zones require specific conditions to operate legally. Key requirements include a minimum site area of 5 acres, a buffer zone of at least 100 feet from residential properties, and written consent from 75% of nearby property owners within a 300-foot radius.

Buhr argues that Abbott’s does not meet these criteria. The couple expressed that the properties involved do not qualify for a special use permit (SUP) under the county code, as kennels are excluded from the list of approved special uses. The kennel is seeking an SUP under a clause that allows for other uses deemed suitable by the planning commission, a move that, according to Buhr, undermines community safety and welfare.

While Buhr emphasizes that their opposition is not personal, they highlight the significance of the proposed permit. Having lived adjacent to the kennel since 2000, they witnessed changes with the arrival of new neighbors in 2017 who aimed to expand the breeding operation. Code compliance officials confirmed that no commercial kennel permit exists for the Jean Drive location, only for a facility on Val Vista Road, cited as the main site for puppy sales.

Concerns from neighboring residents include safety issues stemming from dogs escaping, disruptive noise, and a general feeling of discomfort when using their own street. Buhr contends that opposition to the SUP is widespread, with over 40 letters from local residents expressing their concerns, rather than stemming from a single source of discontent.

Ultimately, the decision rests with the Pinal County Board of Supervisors, which will review the application during its upcoming meeting. The Buhrs hope that the board considers the voices of those who would be directly impacted.

Sincerely,

Katie Buhr, Thunderbird Farms