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Residents press Saginaw County for transparency, oversight of Animal Care & Control and new surgical center
Summary
Multiple residents and volunteers told the county board on Feb. 17 they were concerned about Animal Care & Control operations, alleging lack of transparency about donated funds and the surgical center's use and capacity; volunteers said they were refused supplies and cited turnover and record-keeping problems.
During the public-audience portion of the Saginaw County Board meeting on Feb. 17, a string of residents and volunteers urged commissioners to increase oversight and transparency at Saginaw County Animal Care & Control.
Jennifer Polsinelli, speaking as a concerned citizen, sought clarity and a timeline for when spay-neuter services would be available at the new surgical center and said she was referred elsewhere for services. Volunteer Heidi Storck described being refused supplies when seeking support for fosters and asked the board to ensure volunteers are not required to personally fund necessary items. Kimberly Trinklein, a resident of the 9th district, alleged high staff turnover and said she believes transfer records are inaccurate; she said she will continue bringing her concerns to the board until they are resolved. Volunteer Sue Persinger asked specifically about two $500 donations reportedly given for surgery for a dog named Tahoe and wanted the commissioners to ensure transparency on where the money was applied.
Brenda Warner accused the county of using taxpayer funds to pay legal fees for "Director Horton," questioned why the public was not invited to the Animal Care & Control open house, and called for a public grand opening. Paul Glazar, representing Michigan Cause for Paws, said volunteers who helped pass the animal millage were not invited to the grand opening, asserted the surgical center is not at full capacity, and asked commissioners to inspect the facility for themselves.
Chairman Jack B. Tany received the public comments; the minutes record no formal staff response during the public comment period. Several commissioners acknowledged the comments during commissioner audiences and said they hoped the complaints would be resolved. The transcript shows no formal board action or vote arising directly from these public comments during this meeting.
