Rochester’s Zoning Board of Appeals is allowing the dog kennel at 246 New Bedford Street to expand. The board on February 26 granted a Special Permit to allow up to 15 adult dogs for a kennel license that currently permits a maximum of six.
Applicant Jacqueline Orlando explained she breeds Australian Shepherds. She now has 12 adult dogs at her and her husband Michael’s 1.19-acre kennel and horse farm. There are typically eight puppies in a litter, but these dogs are not part of the kennel count because they are under six months old and are quickly “re-housed” with other people. She needs an expanded license but will keep her dogs within the existing building and the existing footprint, she said.
Acting Chair Davis Sullivan asked how quiet her dogs are. Orlando said she keeps them as quiet as possible, and she’s only had one complaint that she quickly resolved.
Input from neighbors who attended eased the approval decision. Ray Melanson said he and his wife Marilyn have had no problem with the Orlando kennel. “They’ve been a great neighbor,” he said. “Let her do it. It’s a farm.”
The board unanimously approved the Special Permit with the following conditions: The building footprint is not to be modified; and the permit allows no more than 15 adult dogs over six months of age to be on the premises.
In other action, the board approved cutting its budget for FY27 in half, from $1,000 to $500. This vote came after Board Administrator Andreia Lacerda noted she historically spends only $500 from the account every year, and the town is looking to cut costs for the upcoming fiscal year.
The Rochester Zoning Board of Appeals did not set a date for its next meeting before adjourning.
Rochester Zoning Board of Appeals
By Michael J. DeCicco