Wichita County officials discuss collaboration with Humane Society on stray animal issue

During the recent Wichita County Commissioner’s Court meeting on May 16, 2025, officials discussed several key issues impacting the community, with a particular focus on local animal welfare and public health.

One of the most pressing topics was the current situation at the Wichita County Humane Society regarding stray animals. Commissioner Beecham raised concerns after receiving reports from constituents about the Humane Society's policy of not accepting strays unless they are deemed adoptable. This has left residents uncertain about where to take stray animals, especially as many are abandoned on county roads. The discussion highlighted the need for a clear plan to address this issue, as the Humane Society aims to focus its resources on animals that can be adopted.

The court acknowledged that the last agreement with the Humane Society for handling stray animals dates back to 2016 and has not been actively renewed. This has created a gap in services for residents needing assistance with stray domestic animals. The court members expressed the importance of revisiting this agreement and exploring options for collaboration with the Humane Society and possibly the health department to ensure that residents have a reliable solution for stray animal issues.

In addition to animal welfare, the meeting also touched on the successful collaboration with Midwestern State University (MSU) regarding nurse training programs. Officials reported that Core Health has hired two graduates from the program, indicating a positive outcome for local healthcare staffing. This partnership is expected to benefit not only the healthcare sector but also other partner agencies in the area.

The court also reviewed regular bills and discussed ongoing projects funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), including water improvement initiatives. Officials noted that these projects are crucial for supporting the growing infrastructure needs in Wichita County.

As the meeting concluded, the commissioners emphasized the importance of addressing community concerns, particularly regarding animal welfare, and committed to exploring solutions that would provide residents with clear guidance on handling stray animals. The discussions reflect a proactive approach to ensuring that local government services align with the needs of the community.