Title
An ordinance amending Chapter 4 of the City Code thereby amending the provisions related to the Animal Control Advisory Committee hereafter to be known as the Animal Services Advisory Board.
Body
The Animal Control Advisory Committee reviews the operations of the City Animal Shelter, provides guidance to the Animal Services Division in complying with all provisions of the Health and Safety Code and performs such other duties as may be assigned by the City Council. Staff proposes revising the section that pertains to the Advisory Committee regarding the organizational structure and operating rules for the Animal Control Advisory Committee. The Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 823 requires the establishment of a board for municipalities that operate an Animal Shelter.
The proposed recommendations are items that were discussed among the Animal Services Strategic Plan Task Force during the strategic plan development process.
The proposed changes to the Animal Control Advisory Committee operating rules as proposed is:
• Amend the name to Animal Services Advisory Board
• Modify the make-up of the board, by increasing the size of the board from five to nine members:
o One licensed veterinarian with a practice in the City of Mesquite;
o One municipal official;
o One individual whose duties include the daily operation of an animal shelter;
o Two representatives from a recognized animal welfare organization; and
o Four qualified voters of the City of Mesquite
• Increase the frequency of meetings from three to four meetings per calendar year
• Formalize the operating rules of the board
• Establish expectations and rules regarding board member attendance
Recommended/Desired Action
Staff recommends approval of the ordinance.
Attachment(s)
Red-line version of ordinance
Ordinance
Drafter
Raymond Rivas
Head of Department
Raymond Rivas