A Garner resident who was the center of an animal controversy in September has once again surfaced as the focus of complaints.

Neighbors and passer-bys have accused Shelly Spicer of Bournemouth Lane of illegally housing two horses in her Garner backyard.

Horses are allowed within the city limits with exception, Mayor Ronnie Williams said.

"The lot has to be at least one acre, but it's more appropriate to have them outside the town limits."

As far as acreage, Spicer's lot does not meet the criteria.

According to neighbors, the horses appeared to be feeble and sick. Since Spicer is a well-known among those who rescue animals, it is unclear if the animals originally belonged to her or if she took them in simply trying to restore their health.

Town officials, acting on complaints and following ordinances, gave Spicer until this past weekend to move the animals.

She did not return a phone call from the Garner News; however, someone who answered the phone at her residence said the horses had been moved and were residing at their new home. Spicer later acknowledged an email simply stating, "Have no idea what you are talking about there is nothing happening to my horses."

Williams said the Law and Finance Committee's Dec. 17 meeting will include the topic of how many rescue animals you can have on your property within the town limits. The recommendations will then be passed on to the Town Council for approval.

Currently, the number of dogs permitted to be kept on a property is limited by the size of the lot.

"Most lots are one fourth to one half acre, meaning the majority of people can have no more than two dogs," said Williams.