HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda - 06-01-2023; 8 - Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool – Appointments Discussion 1
ORANGE COUNTY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date: June 1, 2023
Action Agenda
Item No. 8
SUBJECT: Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool —Appointments Discussion
DEPARTMENT: Board of Commissioners
ATTACHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT:
Member and Applicant Summary Sheet Clerk's Office, 919-245-2125
Applications of Persons for Reappointment
Applications of Other Applicants
Membership Roster
Applicant Interest List
PURPOSE: To discuss appointments to the Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool.
BACKGROUND: The charge of the Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool is to hear appeals
concerning violations of the Orange County Code of Ordinances, Chapter 4 ("Animal Control
Ordinance"), as provided in the Orange County Code of Ordinances, Section 4-53 Appeals and
also potentially dangerous dog appeals as prescribed by North Caroline General Statute §67-
4.1(c). It is the responsibility of pool members to conduct fair and impartial hearings for these
appeals and they will receive training in both law and proper procedure prior to participating in a
hearing.
The Board of County Commissioners appoints twelve (12) members, with representation from
various fields. The Towns of Carrboro, Chapel Hill, and Hillsborough each appoint two (2)
members from their respective jurisdictions.
The following individuals and positions are presented for Board consideration:
NAME POSITION TYPE OF EXPIRATION
DESCRIPTION APPOINTMENT DATE
TERM
Cathy Munnier At-Large One year extension 03/31/2024
Unincorporated
Count
Allan Polak Animal Services First Full Term 03/31/2025
Advisory Board (reappointment)
Member
BOCC At-Large Partial Term 03/31/2025
Appointee Unincorporated
2
BOCC Animal Services First Full Term 03/31/2026
Appointee Advisory Board
Member
BOCC Animal Services Partial Term 03/31/2025
Appointee Advisory Board
Member
If the individuals listed above are appointed, the following vacancies remain:
POSITION EXPIRATION VACANCY INFORMATION
DESIGNATION DATE
Town of 03/31/2026 Vacant since 03/31/2023
Carrboro
Town of Chapel 03/31/2025 Vacant since 03/31/2022
Hill
Town of Chapel 03/31/2026 Vacant since 03/31/2023
Hill
Public Health 03/31/2026 Vacant since 03/31/2023
Field
Public Safety 03/31/2024 Vacant since 05/18/2021
Field
At-Large 03/31/2025 Vacant since 03/31/2022
At-Large 03/31/2026 Vacant since 03/31/2023
FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no financial impact associated with this item.
SOCIAL JUSTICE IMPACT: The following Orange County Social Justice Goal is applicable to
this item:
• GOAL: ENABLE FULL CIVIC PARTICIPATION
Ensure that Orange County residents are able to engage government through voting and
volunteering by eliminating disparities in participation and barriers to participation.
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: There is no Orange County Environmental Responsibility Goal
impact associated with this item.
RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board discuss appointments to
the Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool.
3
Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool Members and Applicants
Name Member or Applicant? Gender Identity Race/Ethnic Background Age Range Township Also Serves on
Debra Cunningham Member Female White Chapel Hill
Mark J.Solomon Member Male White 35-59 Hillsborough
Jennifer Stout Member Female White Hillsborough
Meggie Romick Member Female White 18-34 Chapel Hill
Cathy Munnier Member Female White 60+ Eno
Pam C.Schwenter Member Female White 35-59 Cedar Grove
Cynthia J.Stubbs Member Female White 35-59 Little River
Allan Polak Member Male White 35-59 Chapel Hill Animal Services Advisory Board
VACANT
VACANT
VACANT
VACANT
VACANT
VACANT
VACANT
VACANT
VACANT
VACANT
Michael Delafield jApplicant Male White 35-59 Chapel Hill Animal Services Advisory Board
Lynne DuBose lApplicant Female White 60+ Eno
Dawn Roberts jApplicant Female lWhite 35-59 1 Cedar Grove jAnimal Services Advisory Board
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Page 1 of 2 Cathy Munnier
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Cathy Munnier
Name Called:
Home Address: 134 Kirkland Dr.
Hillsborough NC 27278
Phone: 919-245-8736
Email: harleyscat55@gmail.com
Year of OC Residence: 2015
Township of Residence: Eno
Zone of Residence: County
Gender Identity: Female
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range: 60+
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
OCAS Hearing Panel APDT AKC
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
OCAS Hearing Panel
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Animal Services Advisory Board
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
I have a degree in Animal Science, have worked for Veterinarians both in the capacity of Vet
Tech and Practice Manager. I have been training dogs ALL my life and became a fully certified
Trainer in 2003 and opened my Dog Training business in NY in 2009. In addition, I moved that
business down here in 2015. 1 have multiple certifications = 2 thru Animal Behavior College and
1 thru CCPDT. I also did legal Dog Bite cases for the town of Fishkill in NY for a number of
years. I am an AKC Canine Good Citizen evaluator and have trained thousands of dogs
including many Therapy and Service dogs.
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
I am an animal advocate, with a strong understanding of animal behavior as my training
business fully relies on my ability to understand and read both the animal and human sides of
the equation and I feel that I could help with decisions and regulations with regard to proper
handling and laws with regard to the humane treatment of animals.
Contribution to the diversity of viewpoints on this board:
I read both animals and people better than most people. I also have a fairly good grasp of the
laws governing the humane treatment of animals as well as the owner s rights and
responsibilities. I also have the medical background of a Vet Tech which makes me well versed
in diseases, medical care and the overall proper care of pets.
Conflict of Interest:
Boards/Commissions appointments:
5
Page 2 of 2 Cathy Munnier
Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool
Application Date: 2/17/2016
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
With my Degree in Animal Science, experience as a Vet Tech and Practice manager I have a
significant knowledge of the medical end of animal care. As a Dog Trainer I have trained
thousands of dogs from (8 weeks of age) Puppy, Basic Obedience up to Canine
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
As a Dog (animal)Advocate with the level of training and experience I have I am able to evaluate
and observe situations the average person may not be equipped or trained to see. I also have
the expertise to help determine a course of action that will be
Conflict of Interest:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 11/18/2022 11:15:53 AM Date Printed: 11/18/2022
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Page 1 of 2 Allan Polak
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Allan Polak
Name Called:
Home Address: 8201 S. Hound Ct.
Chapel Hill NC 27516
Phone: 919-593-2202
Email: allan.polak@gmail.com
Year of OC Residence: 2015
Township of Residence: Chapel Hill
Zone of Residence: C.H. City Limits
Gender Identity: Male
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range: 35-59
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Vice-chair Orange County Animal Services Advisory Board, Chair Orange County Animal
Services Hearing Panel
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
Animal Services Advisory Board, Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Board of Health
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
My undergraduate studies focused on cultural anthropology and sociology-during these studies
I took particular interest in the relation between various cultures and public health. While
professionally I have focused on business and technology, I have retained an interest in public
health and continue to educate myself through various reading on the subject. Additionally)
serve on the Animal Services Advisory Board which is related to the public health in its focus on
the health of the domestic animal population and its impact on the citizens of Orange County.
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
I have a strong interest in public health going back to my undergraduate studies and I wish to
serve my community in a volunteer capacity. The COVID-19 pandemic has reminded us all of
the importance of public health to the community.
Contribution to the diversity of viewpoints on this board:
I am an Orange County citizen, a former business owner with a background in cultural
anthropology,Middle East studies, a technology expert, and a father of three young children. I
believe that I would bring unique viewpoints to the board based on my experiences and
education.
Conflict of Interest:
Boards/Commissions appointments:
7
Page 2 of 2 Allan Polak
Animal Services Advisory Board
Application Date: 7/28/2020
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
I am a trained and certified search and rescue dog handler with extensive experience with dogs,
and a genuine caring for all animals.
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
I wish to serve my community and this is a subject of particular interest to me.
Conflict of Interest:
Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool
Application Date: 2/13/2019
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
I have extensive experience with dogs being a certified search and rescue dog handler. I have
also completed NC State s comprehensive k9 emergency medicine program K9 Down.
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
I wish to serve my community and have a particular interest in this board s subject matter.
Conflict of Interest:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 10/22/2022 Date Printed: 10/27/2022
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Page 1 of 2 Lynne DuBose
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Mrs. Lynne DuBose
Name Called:
Home Address: 1020 Lawrence Road
Hillsborough NC 27278
Phone: 919-632-4859
Email: enorun@nc.rr.com
Year of OC Residence: 1993
Township of Residence: Eno
Zone of Residence: County
Gender Identity: Female
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range: 60+
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Member of Orange County Library.
Member of Orange County Sportsplex.
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
None
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Animal Services Advisory Board
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
50 years as a Labrador Retriever breeder, trainer, and competitor.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I have a lifelong interest in animal welfare and feel that my age and experience is ideally suited
to be a knowledgeable contributor to the boards issues.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I think my years of experience working with animals allows me to draw on those experiences to
the betterment of whatever animal welfare issues arise.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
50 years as a Labrador Retriever breeder, trainer, and competitor. My age gives me a broader
base to evaluate important issues that would come before this pool.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I have a lifelong interest in animal welfare and feel that my age and experience is ideally suited
to be a knowledgeable contributor to the boards issues.
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Page 2 of 2 Lynne DuBose
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I think my years of experience working with animals allows me to draw on those experiences to
the betterment of whatever animal welfare issues arise.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 4/27/2023 12:22:38 PM Date Printed: 4/28/2023
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Page 1 of 2 Michael Delafield
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Mr. Michael Delafield
Name Called:
Home Address: 102 Saddle Ridge Rd
Chapel Hill NC 27514
Phone: 919-616-3471
Email: mikedelafield@gmail.com
Year of OC Residence: 2022
Township of Residence: Chapel Hill
Zone of Residence: C.H. City Limits
Gender Identity: Male
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range: 35-59
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Orange County Animal Services Advisory Board
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
Orange County Animal Services Advisory Board
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Orange County Parks and Recreation Council
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
I'm an attorney with 20+ years experience in public education, including the past 10 as an
attorney with the UNC System. I've represented public boards and participated on numerous
committees working on public policy and administrative projects.
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
I think that preserving and improving our parks and public spaces is critical work that benefits all
citizens. Making sure that such work is properly resourced, and that those resources are
equitably distributed across Orange County, is important for the health and welfare of the people
who live here, and is necessary to ensure that Orange County will continue to be an attractive
location for families and businesses.
Contribution to the diversity of viewpoints on this board:
I'm relatively new to Orange County, having moved to Chapel Hill from Durham in April 2022, so
I may have a bit of an outsiders perspective. Also, as an attorney, I may bring some expertise
that may not currently exist on the board.
Conflict of Interest:
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Page 2 of 2 Michael Delafield
Human Relations Commission
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
See above. I have also been involved in equity, diversity and inclusion initiatives, including
drafting and implementing policies designed to increase diversity and cross-cultural
understanding.
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
Increasing cross-cultural awareness, equity, and diversity is perhaps the most important
responsibility of public bodies in today s world. Fostering collaborative and constructive dialogue
between diverse groups with differing agendas is difficult but crucial. I'd like the opportunity to
help do this work across Orange County.
Contribution to the diversity of viewpoints on this board:
Diversity of viewpoints is critical in any public endeavor, and especially this one. While I identify
as a straight white male, I am constantly striving to better my understanding of the stories and
life experiences of those different from myself.
Conflict of Interest:
Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
I am an attorney and I have exerience with administrative hearings in a number of settings.
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
As a member of the Animal Advisory Board, I think it is important to be involved in this process.
Contribution to the diversity of viewpoints on this board:
As an attorney, I am trained to review and analysis facts and evidence dispassionately and
analytically. I am a dog owner, but I feel strongly about the need for dog owners to act
responsibly with regard to the training and care for their animals.
Conflict of Interest:
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Animal Services Advisory Board
Application Date: 8/29/2022
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
See above. Also a pet owner and animal lover for many years.
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
I'd like to do something in public service in Orange County. The issues surrounding the county s
animal populations are important not only for the health and welfare of the animals, but also for
making Orange County a safe place to live and work.
Conflict of Interest:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 3/7/2023 11:46:33 AM Date Printed: 3/9/2023
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Page 1 of 2 Dawn Roberts
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Dawn Roberts
Name Called:
Home Address: 2730 Little River Church Rd
Hurdle mills NC 27541
Phone: 9194518475
Email: Dawn.roberts@biomerieux.com
Year of OC Residence: 2017
Township of Residence: Cedar Grove
Zone of Residence: County
Gender Identity: Female
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range: 35-59
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Past Vice President and President of LPGA women's amateur RALEIGH chapter.
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
Currently serve on ASAB
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
Have been around dogs and horses all of my life. My mother broke thoughbreds and my
grandmother breed standard poodles. I currently own a 30 acre farm in Orange County with
around 50 farm animals and 2 dogs and 5 cats.
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
It would be another way to volunteer my time to serve the community
Contribution to the diversity of viewpoints on this board:
I am very attentive to how all people are treated. Help create a safe place where everyone can
be themselves and express who they are.
Conflict of Interest:
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Animal Services Advisory Board
Application Date: 1/9/2020
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
I have been involved with many animal rescue, foster and adoption agencies over the last 20
years. I have extensive knowledge and experience in animal science and am currently a certified
medical technologist for over 23 years. We currently have a farm wi
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Page 2 of 2 Dawn Roberts
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
I would really love to contribute my services, experience and knowledge and become a more
active member of my community. In addition follow my cathartic love by helping on the animal
welfare committee.
Conflict of Interest:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 3/6/2023 12:24:07 PM Date Printed: 3/8/2023
14
Board and Commission Members
And Vacant Positions
Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool
Meeting Times: As Needed As Needed Contact Person:Holly Pittman&Dr.Sandra Strong
Meeting Place: TBD Contact Phone: 919-942-7387
Positions: 18 Length:3 years Terms: 2
Description: To hear appeals from violations of the Orange County Code of Ordinances,Chapter 4("Animal Control Ordinance"),as
provided in the Orange County Code of Ordinances,Section 4-53 Appeals. To hear appeals as prescribed by N.C.Gen.Stat.
§67-4.1(c). To protect the health,safety and welfare of Orange County residents and the animals residing in Orange County.
Conduct fair and impartial hearings of appeals of potentially dangerous dog declaration and any other appeals as may be
required by the Animal Control Ordinance.
VACANT
1 First Appointed:
Gender Identity: Township: Current Appointment:
Ethnic Background: Residency Req: Carrboro Expiration: 03/31/2026
Age Range: Special Repr: Town of Carrboro Number of Terms:
Debra Cunningham
2 First Appointed: 03/20/2018
Gender Identity: Female Township: Chapel Hill Current Appointment: 03/16/2021
Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: Carrboro Expiration: 03/31/2024
Age Range: Special Repr: Town of Carrboro Number of Terms: 2
VACANT
3 First Appointed:
Gender Identity: Township: Current Appointment:
Ethnic Background: Residency Req: Chapel Hill Expiration: 03/31/2025
Age Range: Special Repr: Town of Chapel Hill Number of Terms:
VACANT
4 First Appointed:
Gender Identity: Township: Current Appointment:
Ethnic Background: Residency Req: Chapel Hill Expiration: 03/31/2026
Age Range: Special Repr: Town of Chapel Hill Number of Terms:
Dr. Mark J. Solomon
5 First Appointed: 03/16/2021
Gender Identity: Male Township: Hillsborough Current Appointment: 03/16/2021
Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: Hillsborough Expiration: 03/31/2024
Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: Town of Hillsborough Number of Terms: 1
Ms. Jennifer Stout
6 First Appointed: 06/18/2019
Gender Identity: Female Township: Hillsborough Current Appointment: 06/18/2019
Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: Hillsborough Expiration: 03/31/2022
Age Range: Special Repr: Town of Hillsborough Number of Terms: 1
Monday,May 22,2023 Page 1
15
Board and Commission Members
And Vacant Positions
Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool
Meeting Times: As Needed As Needed Contact Person:Holly Pittman&Dr.Sandra Strong
Meeting Place: TBD Contact Phone: 919-942-7387
Positions: 18 Length:3 years Terms: 2
VACANT
7 First Appointed:
Gender Identity: Township: Current Appointment:
Ethnic Background: Residency Req: Orange County Expiration: 03/31/2026
Age Range: Special Repr: Public Health Field Number of Terms:
VACANT
8 First Appointed:
Gender Identity: Township: Current Appointment:
Ethnic Background: Residency Req: Orange County Expiration: 03/31/2024
Age Range: Special Repr: Public Safety Field Number of Terms:
VACANT
9 First Appointed:
Gender Identity: Township: Current Appointment:
Ethnic Background: Residency Req: Orange County Expiration: 03/31/2025
Age Range: Special Repr: At-Large Number of Terms:
VACANT
10 First Appointed:
Gender Identity: Township: Current Appointment:
Ethnic Background: Residency Req: Orange County Expiration: 03/31/2026
Age Range: Special Repr: At-Large Number of Terms:
Meggie Romick
11 First Appointed: 03/19/2019
Gender Identity: Female Township: Chapel Hill Current Appointment: 03/16/2021
Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: Orange County Expiration: 03/31/2024
Age Range: 18-34 Special Repr: At-Large Number of Terms: 1
VACANT
12 First Appointed:
Gender Identity: Township: Current Appointment:
Ethnic Background: Residency Req: Orange County Expiration: 03/31/2025
Age Range: Special Repr: At-Large Unincorporated County Number of Terms:
Monday,May 22,2023 Page 2
16
Board and Commission Members
And Vacant Positions
Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool
Meeting Times: As Needed As Needed Contact Person:Holly Pittman&Dr.Sandra Strong
Meeting Place: TBD Contact Phone: 919-942-7387
Positions: 18 Length:3 years Terms: 2
Cathy Munnier
13 First Appointed: 03/22/2016
Gender Identity: Female Township: Eno Current Appointment: 03/10/2020
Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: Orange County Expiration: 03/31/2023
Age Range: 60+ Special Repr: At-Large Unincorporated County Number of Terms: 2
Pam C. Schwentner
14 First Appointed: 10/05/2021
Gender Identity: Female Township: Cedar Grove Current Appointment: 10/05/2021
Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: Orange County Expiration: 09/30/2024
Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: At-Large Unincorporated County Number of Terms: 1
Cynthia J Stubbs
15 First Appointed: 10/05/2021
Gender Identity: Female Township: Little River Current Appointment: 10/05/2021
Ethnic Background: white Residency Req: Orange County Expiration: 09/30/2024
Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: Veterinarian Number of Terms: 1
VACANT
16 First Appointed:
Gender Identity: Township: Current Appointment:
Ethnic Background: Residency Req: Orange County Expiration: 03/31/2026
Age Range: Special Repr: Animal Services Advisory Board Member Number of Terms:
Allan Polak
17 First Appointed: 05/18/2021
Gender Identity: Male Township: Chapel Hill Current Appointment: 05/18/2021
Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: Orange County Expiration: 03/31/2022
Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: Animal Services Advisory Board Member Number of Terms:
VACANT
18 First Appointed:
Gender Identity: Township: Current Appointment:
Ethnic Background: Residency Req: Orange County Expiration: 03/31/2025
Age Range: Special Repr: Animal Services Advisory Board Member Number of Terms:
Monday,May 22,2023 Page 3
17
Applicant Interest Listing by Board Name and by Applicant Name
Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool
Contact Person: Holly Pittman&Dr. Sandra Stro
Contact Phone: 919-942-7387
Mr. Michael Delafield
Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 03/07/2023
Ethnic Background: White Township: Chapel Hill
Age Range: 35-59 Zone of Residence: C.H.City Limits
Also Serves On: Animal Services Advisory Board
Mrs. Lynne DuBose
Gender Identity: Female Date Applied: 04/27/2023
Ethnic Background: White Township: Eno
Age Range: 60+ Zone of Residence: County
Also Serves On:
Dawn Roberts
Gender Identity: Female Date Applied: 03/06/2023
Ethnic Background: White Township: Cedar Grove
Age Range: 35-59 Zone of Residence: County
Also Serves On: Animal Services Advisory Board
Monday,May 22,2023 Page 1 of 1