HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0091.019 2022-2024 % 0 AC
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Aloha Councilmembers-Mahalo for your service. MV-iia rimeH s wryrd�aV ancl'I'm testifying on Bill 22.
1 support the removal of Animal Control functions from the Police Department, and the establishment of
a dedicated Agency to focus on the multitude of issues related to Animal Control. While this bill was a
collaborative effort between the Mayor's Office, Finance,the Police Department, Corporation Counsel
and County Council, it is clearly missing representation from an individual or entity with comprehensive
Animal Control experience.
The size of our County alone,with varying animal-related issues in each District,stresses the need for
community representation from each District of the Island. Throw in the infancy of the Agency-with
little to no experience in the coordination of a multi-faceted operation-and we have an even more
compelling reason for the formation of an Oversight Committee and the guidance of an expert.
The recommendation for an Oversight Committee was previously noted by the National Animal Care&
Control Association (NACA) and the County's Legislative Auditor in their assessments completed 20+
years ago; both stating that an Oversight Committee should oversee Animal Control. Again, in
September,2022,during our meeting with the NACA executive committee,this was identified as a top
priority-stating that it allows for constituent oversight,a direct line to County, and authority to
mandate changes. Yet it must be independent from the Agency, avoiding conflict of interest. This
Committee is what provides the much needed,yet lacking,transparency and communication with the
public!
Since Council is requesting successful models, one model,which I'll briefly introduce, is Pima County,
AZ's Animal Care Committee.Their Mission is to review and evaluate operations and policies of the Pima
County Animal Control provider to assure the center keeps pace with the most modern practices and
procedures of animal welfare. Their purpose is to provide community input and recommendations to
help achieve the goal of assuring the Animal Care Center mission is a benefit to the welfare of the
animals and community it serves.
This Committee's membership includes a community representative from each District. It also includes
members from various agencies and technical advisors whose functions and skills are involved in the
many parts of the Animal Control system. They are appointed by separate individuals or agencies, and
their terms rotate.
In conjunction with Bill 22, Hawai'i Island Pets Alive recommends an Oversight Committee be
introduced by a Council Member as a Friendly Amendment,authorizing the Agency to form this
Committee without further legislation. This will ensure the Agency is soundly built with transparency,
the integrative use of successful models,the guidance of those experienced with Animal Control
operations,and the community members who are working directly in the trenches.
Mahalo!
Comm. No. .
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