Residents urge faster removal of impounded vehicles and volunteer checkout program at Shelton animal shelter

Two residents urged the council during public comment on Jan. 7 to address operational issues at the city animal shelter and to expand volunteer opportunities to increase adoptions.

Karen Salatka told the council that vehicles being stored in the animal control yard are preventing planned use of the area for shelter needs. “The dogs need more room, enrichment, and opportunity for adoption,” Salatka said, and she asked what the city could do to remove the vehicles more expeditiously so the area could be prepared for animal use.

Salatka also asked the city to establish a form that would allow volunteers to check out dogs for afternoon meet‑and‑greet events and adoption opportunities. “This opportunity would allow volunteers to take various dogs to meet and greets and adoption events to allow more exposure to all these highly adoptable dogs that we have in our community,” she said, and noted neighboring Kitsap Humane operates similar programs.

Salatka acknowledged recent administrative changes at the shelter but said operational changes to increase enrichment and adoption exposure should proceed despite staff turnover. She offered volunteer support and practical help, including cleaning up the area once vehicles are removed.

Nut graf: Residents emphasized the shelter’s need for usable outdoor space and a low‑barrier volunteer process to increase adoption rates; council did not take immediate action but the concern was recorded during public comment.

Ending: Salatka thanked Jay Hill for assistance with a recent adoption and said she is willing to help with volunteer work parties or transport for adoption events.