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Hempstead board approves 90‑day consulting contract to place long‑term shelter animals amid sharp volunteer opposition
Summary
The Town of Hempstead approved a 90‑day consulting contract with Diane Madden intended to accelerate placements of long‑term shelter animals despite sustained public opposition from volunteers who said the hire lacked an RFP and risked fracturing volunteer relationships.
The Town of Hempstead board voted Jan. 27 to approve a three‑month consulting contract with Diane Madden aimed at increasing placements of long‑term shelter animals in reputable rescues, but the decision prompted prolonged public comment and sharp disagreement among volunteers and animal advocates.
Supporters told the board Madden has a long record of animal advocacy and successful interventions. “Diane has been by my side and has been shedding light on what needs to be fixed,” said Ace (Tate) Simmons, who described personal loss of a pet and credited Madden with pressing for accountability. Other residents described cases they said showed Madden’s effectiveness placing animals or exposing poor…
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