TRUMBULL COUNTY Mecca search dogs to train in McDonald

The search unit is available to all Trumbull County communities.
By ANTHONY M. NICK
VINDICATOR CORRESPONDENT
McDONALD -- The Mecca Township Fire Department's canine search and rescue unit will conduct training exercises Sunday at the village park, thanks to a vote by council during a special Tuesday session.
Councilman Steven Treharn said the training needed council's approval because there are ordinances that prohibit animals from being in the village-operated park off Ohio Avenue.
Before the vote was taken Councilman Robert Farr Jr. asked village Solicitor William Roux if council legally could vote to temporarily circumvent an ordinance. Roux responded that council could vote to let the Mecca Fire Department train in the park on a temporary basis.
Farr explained he fully supported use of the park for the training but wanted Roux's opinion before a vote was taken.
The motion to allow the training was passed 4-0. Councilman Jim Jones was not present, and Treharn abstained because a family member is involved with the search and rescue unit.
Conditions
The motion was also passed contingent upon all the necessary releases' being signed before the actual training takes place, and that those taking part in the training clean up after they are done.
Treharn explained the Mecca Fire Department requested use of the village park because it gives the dogs a chance to experience new environments and settings. The dogs will also perform agility drills on the park's playground equipment.
About six to eight dogs and several handlers from Mecca Township will take part in the training, said Treharn.
Although the search and rescue unit is based in Mecca Township it is available to all Trumbull County communities and can be accessed by dialing the county 911 emergency number, said Treharn.
Councilwoman Rose Yakubov said the unit is especially effective in finding lost children.
"I hope our fire and police departments will be notified," said Mayor James Border, who said it would be beneficial if the village safety forces could be involved in the exercise.