The Butler City Redevelopment Authority discussed the potential for expanding its pet policy to include its apartments.

“I have been contacted by two tenants whose children need a pet for emotional support,” said Veronica Walker, acting executive director of the authority, at a meeting on Thursday.

A decision was tabled to the next meeting to allow more time for information gathering, but board members continued to discuss the issue.

Walker said the authority's policy allows for only one pet for those staying in its houses with a $100 pet security deposit, but it does not allow any pets at the apartments.

Walker said she recommended allowing pets on a case-by-case basis, which would include restrictions based on size and veterinary care records.

Cheri Readie, assistant secretary for the authority, said in her private rentals she allows pets in houses with a pet security deposit and a monthly pet rent fee, but she does not allow pets in her apartment units.

She said cats and dogs can transmit fleas and other pests. She said dogs can be noise nuisances, and cats can cause damage, especially males that spray.

“It's more of a nuisance and a hassle to have pets in an apartment complex,” Readie said.

Solicitor Tom Breth said the authority might stand on different ground.

“You (Readie) are a private owner,” Breth said. “We are a government entity.”