HomeMy WebLinkAbout01.11.17 SBACC MinutesAnimal Control Commission Minutes January 11, 2017 6:30 p.m.
Commission Members Present: Betsy Culp, Ernest Galos, Rebecca Kaiser,
Barbara Leavell
Citizen Members Present: None
Council Members Present: None
City Staff Present: Jen Gobel, SBACC; Randy Wilkerson, Code
Enforcement; Jeff Chamberlain, SBPD
Agenda: Meeting called to Order at 6:34 p.m. Meeting
had been rescheduled from January 3, 2017 as City Clerk had not issued notice in
time. Ernest Galos prepared written order of Commission's decision at the
December meeting regarding Ashley Kendall matter indicating Commission did not
have authority to review the prior decision. The Order to be submitted to Code
Enforcement for delivery. Ernest Galos also presented written minutes from the
December meeting for approval. He informed Commission that Jen Coleman from
the City Clerk's office indicated that the meetings are recorded but that recordings
are deleted once written minutes are presented. He indicated he disagreed with that
policy.
Jen Gobel inquired if Emily was still on the Commission. Ernest Galos
indicated Jen Coleman had forwarded a resignation letter from Emily.
In light of a Michigan law authorizing police to shoot dogs, Rebecca Kaiser reports
that there is a training class for police officers on how to handle issues that involve
shooting dogs. Jen Gobel knows of a video Chicago police use she can show police.
Possible to collaborate with County Police
Ernest Galos inquired as to Ashley Kendall's address so Order could be sent
to her. Jen Gobel advised of her address and indicated Ms. Kendall had contacted
her to see the dog. She was told it was not appropriate. Ernest Galos also indicated
that Ms. Kendall attempted ex parte communication with him via telephone
message and e-mail to which he did not respond. He inquired of the animal's status.
Jen Gobel indicated it appears adoptable and has improved in socialability as
Officer Singleton has been working with the dog. Her cat went to rescue.
Dr. Culp asked when the Commission's annual report is due. Ernest Galos indicates
it is due in March and it has been a quiet year for Commission activity but we
should prepare ideas.
Ernest Galos asked when budget was submitted. Randy Wilkerson said they
send it to Mayor's office in August before it goes to the Council. Ernest Galos
pointed out that Ordinance requires budget be submitted to Commission before it
goes to Council. Staff indicates it will be done in the future but Interim manager
did not submit it.
Jen Gobel indicates that 67 animals euthanized in December, numbers that
are an improvement. Upper respiratory infection caused many cats to be
euthanized due to inappropriate cat litter being used. Oil absorber rather than
litter was used. Animals were not being vaccinated when they came in. Litter issue
had been ongoing for a long time. Rebecca indicates Dr. Covey had repeatedly said
animals needed to be vaccinated. She indicated previous shelter manager did not
spend money appropriately. Randy Wilkerson asked Dr. Culp cost of vaccination.
She indicated approximately $12.50.
Dr. Culp asked what ventilation was like in back for the animals. Randy Wilkerson
indicates it is terrible. The system has not been maintained. He indicates filters
recently changed which he thinks has been an improvement. Dr. Culp asked about
vaccines used. Jen Gobel indicated euthanasia rate for dogs down 6% for the year
even though total intake down. 75% of cats put down. She believed hoarding
situation in March was noted. She indicates she brought in West Todd to work with
dogs to determine temperament. He is implementing step by step assessment when
animal comes in and re- assess every two weeks.
Dr. Culp informed Jen Gobel of best practice of vaccine use of 4 in 1 and
Lepto. Some dogs react to vaccine but 90% are fine. Jen Gobel indicates that she is
telling staff that they must follow best shelter practices. She indicates more cats
being tested but not all when they come in but all vaccinated. Jen Gobel indicated
she found a new cat rescue. Becky from SNAP of Michigan took 5 cats in the past
week. Ernest Galos asked about fosters for animals. Jen Gobel indicated West
Todd wants to take over training people for that. Rebecca indicated that when Matt
started there were foster dogs but predecessor managers did not keep track of
where animals were. Jen Gobel indicating social media will be used via Pet Point to
get animals on Pet Finder and Adopt —A -Pet for a reasonable cost.
Dr. Culp moved to accept minutes of December, 2016 meeting, Barb Leavell
seconded, unanimously accepted. Next monthly meeting chosen to be February 7,
2017 at 6:30. Randy Wilkerson indicates meeting could be held at Code
Enforcement, 13th Floor. Possibility of a hearing which would be scheduled for
after the regular meeting at 7:00 p.m. Dr. Culp moves to adjourn, Rebecca Kaiser
seconded, all in favor, meeting adjourned at 7:27 p.m.
Filed in Clerk's Office
APR 12 2017
KAREEMAH FOWLER
CITY CLERK, SOUTH BEND, IN