Zoning Board Chairman Diego Blanco said noise was the biggest concern of the neighbors.
He expressed appreciation at the same time for the mayor’s efforts to implement the 1995 stray dog control law.
The mayor’s application for a conditional use permit for the transfer station was approved by the board on Wednesday.
The conditions set by Zoning Administrator Therese Ogumoro include requiring the mayor’s office to ensure that animal waste and chemicals are properly handled and disposed; and to create a landscape that will screen the service area from public view.
The Zoning Board also required the mayor’s office to get the proper permits from all regulatory agencies that have jurisdiction over the project.
Ogumoro said the mayor’s office has complied with all the requirements set by the 2008 Saipan Zoning Law.
Mayor Donald G. Flores also agreed to build no more than 12 kennels.
He said no dogs will be held overnight at the Chalan Kanoa transfer station, as required by the board, and they will be transferred on the same day to the animal shelter in Lower Base.
Henry Hofschneider, the mayor’s special adviser, assured the board that noise will be minimal.
Ray Lizama, the mayor’s office dog control director, said most of the island’s stray dogs are in Chalan Kanoa.
Rep. Ralph S. Demapan, Covenant-Saipan, attended the meeting and said he will help monitor the activities of the transfer station.
He also expressed willingness to extend additional assistance to the mayor’s office to ensure the success of the project.
