MAUMELLE, Ark. — The battle of the races has once again become a hot topic of conversation in central Arkansas.
Someone in Maumelle posted their opinion on pit bulls for all to see, asking the city to ban the breed again.
Pit bulls kill, this is the message that an anonymous person is trying to convey through an advertising billboard in Maumelle. The city lifted its violent ban on dog breeds in 2021, but the sign shows some people want it back.
“I am very concerned about the safety of our residents and our children in particular,” said Councilor Steve Mosley.
Mosley said he wants the ban reinstated and has repeatedly tried to reinstate it, but it continues to be rejected.
“I think it’s just their nature and they are extremely dangerous dogs that can cause significant damage in just a matter of seconds,” Mosley said. “I saw this happen to a family dog. A poodle was attacked by a pit bull and within three seconds he completely ripped his skin off. They are just very powerful animals.”
Unlike Mosley, Maumelle council member Chad Gardner is on the opposite side of the discussion and said he thinks much of the community supports pit bulls.
“There is no need to pick on a particular dog just because of their appearance and not allow them to be a pet here in Maumelle,” Gardner said. “I’ve seen a lot more public support for the way we’re doing it, but I think there is a vocal minority of a few individuals who want there to be a breed ban.”
Gardner said he hasn’t seen a call for change despite the billboard.
“Frankly, I think it backfired on whoever posted it,” Gardner said. “Most comments support the way Maumelle does it. Now. We have focused more on owner education and owners caring for their specific pet, regardless of breed.”
Gardner expects to continue to hear conversations about banning dog breeds.
“I don’t know why a specific breed was given such a label,” Gardner said. “We have problems with all races at one time or another.”
Although the billboard says to call the mayor’s office, the city is not affiliated with the billboard.
According to city officials, there are no immediate plans for the council to raise the ban again.