Cleveland SPCA rezone causes controversy

CLEVELAND, Tenn. (WDEF) – Neighbors in the Dalton Pike area of Cleveland are concerned about property being rezoned for a new SPCA shelter.

Concerned citizens are voicing opposition to the proposed rezone of 5.65 acres of land, formerly known as the old Waterville Elementary School.

The property is zoned for residential development, so the property will need to be suitably rezoned for the needs of the SPCA.

Local landowners have strong feelings both for and against the issue.

Mary Wooten says, “the property is right here behind us. We are not against SPCA, we are not against having an animal shelter. I think they are wonderful; I have animals of my own, however I do not want this in my backyard, nor do I want it in my neighbors back yards. Number one, it would decrease the value of our property, and it will also cause an odor.”

There are some homeowners who support the idea of an animal shelter in their backyard, claiming it would help keep the large rat population down.

If the rezone goes through, the SPCA is hoping to break ground some time mid-year.