Agawam couple is suing the city

Date: 5/23/2007

By Erin O'Connor, Staff Writer

AGAWAM Alan and Suzanne Griffin will be suing the city and the Board of Apeals in Massachusetts Land Court on July 10 over a ruling by the Agawam Board of Apeals that orders the Griffins to remove their two goats from their property on North Road.

According to the Griffins, they have received a letter from the city stating that they will be fined $200 per day that they keep the goats.

Al Griffin said that the goats are necessary for his wife's health. He said they produce milk for his wife who is suffering from Colitis.

Members of the Board of Apeals said that the goats are not allowed on the property according to the zoning and should be removed.

The city has filed a motion to dismiss the case. The dismissal will be heard at the Land Court in Boston on July 11.

Al Griffin states that his case is one of discrimination. He is requesting the assistance of the Disabilies Association.

Al Griffin currently pays hundreds per month to obtain goat milk for his wife. He stated that once the two goats he houses begin supplying milk then his cost will be reduced to room and board of the goats of $20 per month. He refuses to buy the milk from a grocer for quality reasons.

As of yet, the Griffins have paid no fines to the city.