In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the recommendation to remove a 2012 Chevrolet pickup truck from surplus, focusing on the challenges faced by the animal control department regarding their vehicle needs. The discussion highlighted the inadequacies of the current truck, a 2023 model, which was deemed unsuitable for the demanding conditions of animal control work.

The 2023 truck, ordered as a light-duty half-ton vehicle, lacks the necessary four-wheel drive and dual cab features that the department requires for effective operation in various terrains, including snow and mud. The vehicle's single cab design limits storage and the ability to transport additional personnel, which is often necessary during animal control operations.

A significant point of contention was the aftermarket aluminum topper installed on the new truck, which cost $10,000 but was criticized for its poor construction and limited functionality compared to the originally planned fiberglass unit. The original truck, which was denied last year, was designed to last over 30 years, while the new topper is expected to last only about five years. The lack of a drainage system in the new topper further complicates the handling of animals, raising safety concerns for employees who must lift animals into the truck.

The department has raised $33,000 since 2015 through a public dog wash initiative intended to fund animal control needs, but these funds have not been utilized for the truck purchase. The discussion also touched on the potential for trading in the new truck, which is currently not in service due to ongoing modifications, but officials noted that trading county equipment may not be permissible.

The meeting underscored the importance of prioritizing employee safety and operational efficiency in animal control, with officials questioning whether the current vehicle situation adequately meets these needs. The recommendation to retain the old truck, despite its maintenance costs, reflects a broader concern about the adequacy of resources allocated to animal control operations.