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Board appoints two humane officers after legal and operational questions about training and liability
Summary
Adams County approved appointments of two county humane officers; county attorney covering the meeting said officers are covered by county liability when acting in good faith but that required training must follow appointment; the board approved the resolution after discussion of duties, training, equipment and pay.
The Adams County Board adopted a resolution appointing two humane officers after supervisors asked detailed questions about liability, training and operational practice.
The clerk read Resolution 7 authorizing two humane officers. Supervisors asked whether the appointments would increase the county’s liability and whether appointments involved any additional pay or mileage. Director Grant said appointees would remain under their current salaries, that there was no extra stipend, and that the county’s existing vehicles and kennels are used for animal care. ‘‘The equipment was purchased out of our budget,’’ Director Grant said regarding kennels and capture equipment, and added that kennels and dog‑catcher poles are available in P&Z vehicles.
Attorney Malene Malone, covering for corporation counsel, addressed liability questions: "So, under Wisconsin law, humane officers are are covered as long as their actions taken are made in good faith," she said, and added that if the county failed to train or supervise appropriately there could be respondeat superior liability. Malone noted appointments are allowed to be made by counties and municipalities and that absent county appointment duties fall to the sheriff in unincorporated areas.
Supervisors also asked whether violent or aggressive‑animal calls would still be handled by deputies; the sheriff confirmed deputies would continue to handle criminal or violent animal incidents per policy. The board voted to adopt Resolution 7 after discussion; the clerk recorded the board’s tally and a correction to the vote total during roll call; the resolution was adopted.
What the motion clarified: Training is required after appointment; appointees work under current salary structures (no additional stipend) and use existing county vehicles and kennels for transport. The county counsel’s guidance explains county liability coverage applies when humane officers act in good faith but underscores the need to train and supervise the officers.
