mincow 10-30-23 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Resolution 2023-52. All in favor, motion passed. Motion made and seconded to excuse the absence of Councilmember Rader. All in favor, motion passed. Communication from Councilmember Marx regarding Animal Safety & Welfare Advisory Board recommendation. (referred to COW 10/2/23) Director Dillinger delivered a presentation that was prepared by the City Administration in response to the communication from Councilmember Marx. She concluded that after reviewing all the data and evaluating the staffing needs of the City of Lakewood, the administration does not consider this position to be necessary at this time. In response to questions from Councilmember Marx, Supervisor Crawford explained that there are not many volunteer opportunities at this time due to the small size of the shelter. He said in the past, through the Citizens Committee for Lakewood’s Animals & Shelter (CCLAS) organization, there was a volunteer trainer who would coordinate and train volunteers to help clean out the kennels on Saturday mornings. However, CCLAS has ceased their volunteer support of the shelter, and the shelter has found that the volunteers mostly want to play with animals, so they advise them to come during business hours to socialize with the animals instead. He also reviewed the intake process and general medical care of the animals. He said there is a volunteer that coordinates the transportation of the animals to the spay and neuter clinic by volunteer drivers. Councilmember Marx asked Supervisor Crawford if he thinks there is a need to add another person to the shelter staff. He said no, he does not. He stated that he has been running the shelter fine by himself over the past three months, and once the 2 ACO positions are filled the shelter will have plenty of staff capacity and he can focus more on management duties. Councilmember Marx commented that she thinks that preparing to move into the new shelter is a great opportunity to get the public involved in fundraising for the new facility and it is something City leadership should explore. In response to a question from Councilmember Bullock, Supervisor Crawford explained that one ACO position has been recently filled and they are in the process of filling the other. He clarified that the three positions are necessary to be able to keep the shelter open 7 days a week. Councilmember Bullock commented that the big picture is the safety and care of the animals in Lakewood, which includes animal control. He said he appreciates the presentation fromthe Administration, but it sounded at times that there is no room for change, and he hopes that was not the intent. He said that the objective of animal advocates in the City is to evaluate and improve upon the care of the animals and he hopes the administration is open to making improvements. Mayor George clarified that the nature of the presentation was informational and to make sure that everyone was on the same page regarding the current roles and responsibilities, and the 2