Interlocal Agreement for Animal Services Announced
At a press conference this afternoon, Mayor Dennis Tyler was joined by city and county officials in announcing that they have reached an agreement to provide the residents of both Muncie, and Delaware County, with consolidated animal services.
According to a press release, Mayor Tyler stated, “The goal is to keep animal control simple, effective and efficient. Partnering on animal control will allow us to provide the best service for animals, protecting them in Muncie and Delaware County.”
City Council member Allison Quirk stated, “Consolidated animal control has been a priority during her service on City Council, but while at least 4 different plans were prepared, none of them could reach a consensus among all stakeholders” One of her main concerns is reducing the number of euthanized animals at the shelters.
Prior to the press conference, County Commissioner Don Dunnuck expressed concern about the number of puppy mills located throughout the county contributing to abandoned animals left in rural areas. If the puppies are not sold, the owners release the animals because they can no longer sell them.
The task of writing new policies will rest with a new bipartisan commission appointed by the elected bodies of government including veterinarians.
The newly formed commission will be responsible for meeting with concerned citizens and advocates of animal rights and developing sound policies to govern the operation of the center.
The current director of Muncie’s shelter, Phil Peckinpaugh stated, “We have community support for this, and our department will do whatever is needed to offer quality care to the animals and efficient operations to the community.”
County Commissioners will be discussing the Interlocal Agreement in their upcoming meetings, and City Council will discuss at the April 2, 2012 meeting.
We will be posting a copy of the Interlocal Agreement shortly. Comments made by County Commissioner President Todd Donati captured the spirit of the conference by saying, “It was a collaborative effort between city and county officials and the cooperative effort was refreshing.” His entire statement is captured in the video below:
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