Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutAnimal Services Advisory Board Meeting Minutes August 22, 2012 Animal Services Advisory Board Meeting Minutes, 8-22-12 Attendees (members): B. B. Langham, Linda Finnegan, Lorna Barrett, Jerry Macarrio, Jennifer White AAS Staff: Sharon Broady, Priscilla Crisler, Edward Jefferson, Diane Downs Absent: Julie Tillery, Debbie Prince, Aimee Murphy The Advisory board meeting began at 5:35pm, with Chairman B. B. Langham presiding. Since there were not enough members present for a quorum, Mr. Langham suggested that that the meeting last no longer than 7:00pm. He also stated that the board would only discuss the disaster plan and stay on point, and further suggested that the minutes from the last meeting held on 7-25-12 be carried over to the next meeting. These recommendations were agreed to by the members. The Disaster Plan was then discussed. A video of the Exchange Club Fairgrounds was shown. This location will be the area for housing animals during natural disasters (i. e. hurricanes). The livestock building will be used. The rd building has a loading dock at the 3 Street entrance. This area also has tie downs for livestock; 1 above for the head and 1 below for extra security to keep the animal in place. Kennels are also in the building for housing dogs but they have no tops, as they are normally used for hog exhibits during the fair. Therefore tops need to be put in place. At present, we do not have any materials for use. Officer Jefferson suggested using batting cage nets, if Recreation has any extra. Ms. Crisler stated that these items would be hard to clean. Mr. Langham then asked if Recreation had been notified. As the idea had just been suggested the answer was no. Officer Jefferson stated that he would contact the department and have an answer by the next meeting. Ms. White then asked about housing for and care of exotic birds. Officer Jefferson then stated that the community building has glass enclosed cases that could possibly be used for these animals. Ms. Barrett then asked if there was a map for the fairgrounds that could be used. Ms. Broady stated that there probably was one but that she would also check into it. Ms. Broady then suggested that the board break into teams to do animal intakes, and other associated documentation. This documentation would include the following: Owners name, pet and breed, vaccination information. The procedures can be found in the Disaster Preparedness Handbook on pages 19, 22, and 25. Forms associated with this needed documentation will be provided to all staff and volunteers assisting with the preparations. Ms. Broady further suggested having a training seminar to put plans in place. She stated that she had contacted GEMA and was redirected to FEMA. They are attempting to set up a training date. All advisory board members present provided lists of volunteers ready to assist should an emergency situation occur. Further documentation from our staff may include impoundment of stray animals and dead animal carcasses. Mr. Langham questioned accidental pairing of healthy and sick animals. He was referred to page 22 in the disaster preparedness manual, which states that all dogs must have current rabies shots/proof of current rabies vaccinations. Ms. Crisler also stated that in addition these situations would be handled on a case by case basis. Ms. Crisler also suggested contacting local veterinarians for assistance during this time. Ms. White stated that Dr. Walker, Highland Animal Hospital, has a list of veterinarians for similar situations and that we could contact him for assistance. It was further noted that Berry Kennels on Colony Park Road is now Grace Kennels and under new management. Ms. Broady further stated that she would contact Columbia County Animal Control, Aiken County Animal Control/ASPCA and Fort Gordon to see if we could all work in tandem during the disasters. Several members suggested contacting other agencies as well. Ms. Barrett suggested compiling a letter for this purpose. Licensing was briefly discussed. Ms. Crisler compiled a packet covering the subject. Ms. Broady suggested that this issue be tabled and devote an entire meeting to discuss the issue. Ms. Barrett asked if the proposed ordinances had been passed. Ms. Broady stated that although the commission and the law department agreed to look at adding breaking into car windows to rescue animals to the ordinances they have not been approved. She also stated that this procedure would be done as a last resort only if the animal was in distress. Ms. Barrett also stated that she felt awkward and alone when presenting this topic to the commission. Mr. Langham stated that we need to remember that we are a team. He further suggested that if anyone wants to present a topic to any committee to go as a group. Water Bill inserts was discussed en depth by the board. Sample signs were passed to the members for their approval. It was suggested to add a statement about disaster preparedness to the inserts. Ms. Broady stated that she had received a price quote from Accudata of $600.00 to stuff envelopes. The envelopes will be stuffed on a quarterly basis. Ms. Barrett stated that she had received a price quote from Streeter of $200.00. This will be done when the board approves the message they want to use. Ms. Broady stated that she received a call from the media asking what we were doing for National Dog Day (8-25- 12). She informed them that no plans had been made because we were unaware of the designation. Ms. Barrett suggested for future events for that day/or in general having a super adoption event with multiple rescue groups participating. Mr. Macarrio stated that it may or may not work because many rescue groups do not get along. This topic was tabled and research will be done ( for appropriate venues, rules, waiving of fees) for presentation at a future meeting. Several board members asked for board members email addresses. An email will be sent to all board members with this information. Mr. Langham also stated that the board needs at least one more member to have a quorum. Ms. Finnegan stated that she would contact commissioners Johnson, Mason, and Hatney concerning appointments from their districts. Mr. Langham also stated that he would hold off on a legislative appointment at this time. Mr. Langham asked if there was any more discussion for this meeting. There was none. At this time the following topics were suggested for future meetings: 1. Setting an ending time for meetings 2. Licensing 3. Mandatory Spay/Neuter Laws 4. Holding meetings bi-monthly or quarterly 5. Grants 6. Adopt-a-thon Events The meeting adjourned at 7:00pm, with the next meeting to be held on October 24, 2012 at 5:30 pm.