During a recent Boone County board meeting, public comments highlighted growing concerns over animal welfare, particularly regarding practices at local rodeos. Multiple residents voiced their distress over reported instances of animal cruelty, including the illegal beating of horses and the shocking and overworking of steers during tailing events.

Aleta Lanier, a resident of Saint Louis, urged the board to take action against these practices, emphasizing that violence against animals is unacceptable. Similarly, Gloria Pichotti from Chicago and William Criswell from Oregon echoed these sentiments, calling for an end to the abuse and a commitment to providing proper veterinary care for injured animals.

Veronica Noechel, a former wildlife rehabilitator, expressed her alarm over the treatment of animals in these events, noting the emotional and social needs of the animals involved. She argued that the normalization of such cruelty is a violation of the law and called for a reevaluation of the entertainment practices that harm animals.

Cindy Malley from Geneva, Illinois, added her voice to the growing chorus advocating for change, stating that there is a united front against the brutal treatment of steers. Other residents, including Judy Salkar and Susan Diedrich, reiterated the call to stop the abusive practices and ensure the welfare of the animals.

Following the public comments, the board moved on to discuss general consent items, including road projects. Board members acknowledged the need to address new concerns raised during the meeting, indicating a willingness to engage in further discussions on these issues in the future.