01/02/87 Board of Public Works Special Meeting Minutes

Home Browse Search

SPECIAL MEETING JANUARY 2, 1987 anticipated that seven (7) days of service at a cost of $137,000.00 each year for three (3) years would be provided. Deputy Mayor Hartzer reminded Board members that the Humane Society provides animal control services not only to South Bend but to Mishawaka as well as St. Joseph County and they do have a monopoly on this type of service. However, the City did receive an unsolicited proposal from the Animal Services Company of Sioux City, Iowa to provide such services. Mr. Curt E. Koesters, Chief Executive Officer, Animal Services Company, addressed the Board and provided some background on the company. He stated that Animal Services Company was formed out of a financial need of Sioux City, Iowa. He stated that he operated the animal control program for the Police Department in Sioux City for seven (7) years. Because of a budget crunch of Sioux City, he needed to look for alternatives which resulted in privatization of the operation. Having worked in public service, Mr. Koesters informed the Board that he understands the requirements needed by municipalities. Also, he has assumed responsibility for animal control for other cities and counties and those programs have worked. He is, therefore, looking toward expansion of services to other cities. Mr. Koesters stated that when he started this business, he adopted a humane philosophy and sought to learn everything there was to learn about animals and this type of service. Through that philosophy an efficient animal control service has evolved. Common Council President Beverlie Beck inquired of the Board the timetable for the above referred to services as at the present time the City has no contract for animal control services. Mr. Leszczynski advised Mrs. Beck that it is anticipated that Animal Services Company could provide animal control services no later than February 2, 1987. Mr. Leszczynski additionally distributed to individuals present copies of the Letter of Agreement with Animal Services Company submitted to the Board today for consideration. Councilman Joseph Serge inquired how animal control services would be provided in the meantime. Mrs. DeClercq responded that through the Police Department and their liason officer and the Department of Code Enforcement inspectors, the City will handle the operation. She stated that the office of Code Enforcement will handle calls Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. She stated that these hours are the same hours of service provided by the Humane Society. The City will continue handling animal control services until a new operation is in place. Councilman Thomas Zakrzewski inquired how the City intends to handle reports of stray animals. Mrs. DeClercq advised that it is the City's intention to work with local boarding kennels or veterinarians regarding this aspect of the operation. Ms. Theresa Lacopo, 1603 Crestwood, South Bend, Indiana, inquired if she was correct in that as of today there is no pick-up service for stray animals. Mrs. DeClercq responded that the City will now be handling this matter. Ms. Lacopo questioned various aspects of animal control services including what veterinarian is overseeing proper treatment of animals, what veterinarian will supervise, where bite animals will be housed, who will transmit tissue samples to the State Board of Health and what provisions have been made to provide proper transport of various types of animals together. In response to these concerns, Mrs. DeClercq advised that the City is working out all the concerns mentioned and is also working with Dr. Plain of the St. Joseph County Health Department. She advised Mrs. Lacopo that the City understands that these concerns have to be met and each matter will be handled on a case by case basis as they come up. Ms. Lacopo inquired about disposal and euthanasia and what method of euthanasia would be utilized by the City prior to February 2, 1987.