Salina animal shelter explores restructuring animal control officer roles under police department

The Salina City Commission meeting on February 24, 2025, highlighted critical discussions surrounding the city's foster care program for animals, staffing retention at the animal shelter, and the potential restructuring of animal control operations.

Monique Hawley, a key figure in the animal shelter, detailed the foster care program, emphasizing its strict adherence to state regulations. Currently, the shelter has three cat fosters, primarily caring for pregnant cats and orphaned kittens. The program aims to provide a nurturing environment for animals needing special care, such as heartworm-positive dogs, which require a calm setting for treatment. Hawley assured that foster caregivers receive necessary support, including food and medical supplies, to ensure the animals' well-being.

The meeting also addressed staffing at the shelter, with officials reporting improved employee retention rates. Two animal control officers have been with the department for three years, and recent pay increases have contributed to longer tenures among staff. However, concerns were raised about the turnover of temporary staff, particularly dog walkers.

A significant topic of discussion was the proposal to place animal control officers under the police department's jurisdiction. Some commissioners expressed that this could alleviate pressure on the shelter and create a more welcoming environment for the public. However, others cautioned against potential complications, suggesting that the two functions—animal control and shelter operations—should remain distinct to avoid operational disruptions.

Additionally, the shelter's intake process was scrutinized, particularly regarding the management of illnesses like kennel cough. While animals receive vaccinations upon intake, the high volume of unvaccinated strays poses a risk of disease spread. The need for a dedicated quarantine area was identified as a priority for future improvements.

Lastly, the discussion touched on the shelter's budget, with commissioners questioning whether it adequately covers essential expenses. It was noted that without donation funds, the shelter would face significant financial challenges, underscoring the need for a reassessment of the annual budget to ensure sustainable operations.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of further research into the proposed restructuring of animal control and a commitment to enhancing the shelter's capabilities to better serve the community and its animals.