Kennel expansion near Oakmont subject of Thursday hearing

A long-running dispute over the expansion of a kennel on Highway 12 near Santa Rosa will go before the Board of Zoning Adjustments today.

Four neighborhood associations in Oakmont are protesting the expansion of the Meadows Kennel, saying the noise will disturb local residents.

The kennel currently serves as a daycare facility for about 10 dogs but is seeking permits to expand the business into a boarding location and handle up to 35 dogs.

Complaints lodged by residents a year ago caused the county to review the kennel plan and request changes meant to relieve the acoustic and traffic concerns. The kennel operator also agreed to reduce the number of dogs to be boarded.

The county will recommend approval of the new kennel, according to county documents. A decision by the zoning board can be appealed to the county Board of Supervisors.

The meeting is at 2 p.m. at 2550 Ventura Avenue, Santa Rosa.