LAKE STATION | The City Council on Thursday moved closer to approving a comprehensive new ordinance that will regulate all creatures great and small.

The council approved the 20-page ordinance establishing policy and procedures for animal regulation on its first reading. The proposal is expected to get a second reading at the council's next meeting June 5.

Councilman Todd Lara, D-at large, said the city has had several problems with animals in the past two years, and he would like to get the new ordinance passed by the summer.

Councilmen Todd Rogers, D-3rd, and Gary Szostek, D-at large, worked with Lara on the ordinance. It covers such issues as licensing and registration, the number of animals a resident can own, leash laws and penalties.

"It covers everything, and I think it's something we all can live with," Szostek said.

Rogers said the ordinance is a long time coming and he thought it would have enough teeth for enforcement.

Councilman John McDaniel, D-1st, asked about the ordinance's requirement of 5 acres of property to own animals classified as livestock, wondering if that would preclude the average homeowner from having a baby duck.

Lara said the local veterinarians he consulted recommended 5 acres as the minimum amount of property for cows, horses or other livestock.

Council Attorney Mike Deppe said he compared the ordinance with those in other communities, and the 5 acres "was pretty much universal."