HomeMy WebLinkAboutUnapproved September meeting summary1
Orange County Animal Services
1601 Eubanks Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27516
919-942-PETS (7387)
ANIMAL SERVICES ADVISORY BOARD (ASAB)
6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Wednesday, September 21, 2016
Meeting Summary
MEMBERS PRESENT: Warren Porter (Chair), Maureane Hoffman (Vice-Chair), Michael Stewart, Michelle Walker,
Molly Mullin, Beth Grooms, Victoria Hudson, DeWana Anderson, Aviva Scully
MEMBERS ABSENT: Edmund Tiryakian, Susan Elmore, Judy Miller
STAFF PRESENT: Bob Marotto (Animal Services Director)
GUEST PRESENT: Bonnie Hammersley (Orange County Manager); Jean Austin, Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool;
Cathy Munnier; Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool.
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Meeting called to order buy Chair Porter at 6:35 p.m.
Review and adoption of the Agenda: Agenda item #8 was tabled and agenda order changed to accommodate
attendees’ schedule. Michael Stewart made a motion to approve the agenda; seconded by Beth Grooms. The
motion carried without dissent.
Summary of August 18, 2016 meeting: Michael Stewart made a motion to approve the Summary as edited;
seconded by Beth Grooms. The motion carried without dissent.
General Public Comments on items not on the agenda: None.
Discussion with Bonnie Hammersley, Orange County Manager:
After attending five appeal hearings, there were suggestions to make the hearing more formal: name cards,
the arrangement of the room, sound system, etc. The appeal committees are doing well with the open
meetings. She hopes that her attendance is perceived as the County Manager’s office’s support for the
process. There is only one committee vacancy at this time. There is proposed, coordinated training coming
up. In support of tonight’s decision-making on appeals board policy/ procedure, she is sensitive to the
perception of the word, “vicious.”
Animal Services Advisory Board:
(A) “Vicious animal” wording:
Jean Austin, a current member of the Dangerous Dog Appeal Committee, requested changing the
wording of policy, procedure, and notification that replaces the word, “vicious,” to a descriptor that is
less emotionally charged. Victoria Hudson made motion to ask staff to research how a change to the
verbiage is possible, to research the wording in other NC jurisdictions, and to develop a rationale to be
presented to the BOCC for changing “vicious” in a way that preserves the intent of public safety;
seconded Maureane. In discussion, Michelle Walker wants a label that communicates the “risk.”
Motion carried without dissent.
(B) Update on Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool:
The Orange County Attorney has developed a procedure for committee members. A new FAQ
document has been drafted to assist appellants prepare for an effective appeal hearing.
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Consideration will be given to the County Attorney and notes from a review by the School of
Government.
(C) Amending Animal Services Advisory Board Policies and Procedures:
Edmund Tikyakian submitted first revisions prior to meeting. Some details are needed. Discussion
and approval of the revisions has been tabled until October.
New Business:
(A) Email from Lynn Skinner in proposal that indoor cats should not be subject to OCAS licensing was read
by Warren Porter.
(B) Animal Services Updates:
Bob Marotto presented highlights from this month’s Animal Services report. This included a 93% live
release rate for August and the success of the “Name your adoption fee” promotion. Animal Services has
received notice from the Animal Welfare Section regarding increased compliance with shelter op items,
and there will be pending operations revisions that will require extra staff resources. Art projects are
progressing. Now that the PSWG application is ready for implementation, Commissioners requested a
resolution for recognition of Pat Sanford and for the first award of the PSWG. Upcoming clinics are
scheduled to highlight World Rabies Day. Margaret’s Cantina is offering a “2nd Mondays 10% fundraiser”
to benefit Animal Services.
Adjournment and next meeting:
Warren Porter made a motion to adjourn at 7:51; Michael Stewart seconded. Motion carried without dissent.
The next meeting is October 19, 2016 at 6:30 pm, Orange County Animal Services Center.
Minutes taken:
Victoria Hudson