Title
Discussion to Consider Charter for the Animal Shelter Ad Hoc Advisory Committee (ASAC).
Recommended Action
I move to approve the Animal Shelter Ad Hoc Advisory Committee Charter and direct staff to begin recruitment of members.
County Manager's Recommendation
The County Manager recommends that Council approve the motion as requested.
Body
At its June work session, Council received a presentation by Bridgit Lindquist, Executive Director of the Espanola Valley Humane Society, that outlined the various options and models for the management of the animal shelter. She provided background on best practices and models for operation.
The June agenda item had been prompted by discussions with Los Alamos residents, some of whom are active volunteers in organizations whose missions include animal welfare support. Through these discussions and research in the literature, it is apparent that there are a number of models and philosophical approaches for managing animal shelters. Those models range from the original dog pound concept with minimal services to shelters which offer an array of services and programs.
The question was raised to whether the current model and operations is structured in such a way that our shelter meets high standards for the humane treatment of the animals and a high level of service to our citizens.
A way to assess this question is to create a citizen committee, working with assigned staff, charged with answering a number of questions and issues that could include:
- Consider various structural options for managing the shelter.
- What is the best model for managing the animal shelter?
- Include cost estimates for various options.
- Provide recommendations for policies and practices that provide for proper animal care, and emotional health.
- What services should be provided?
- What relationship should exist with other shelters?
Attached is a proposed Charter for the committee.
Alternatives
Council could choose to modify...
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