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Jefferson County creates animal control department and hires new staff member
Summary
The board heard an update that the county has created an animal control department, interviewed four candidates and selected "Cassie" to start Monday; staff outlined plans for three full‑time positions and recommended using surplus capital funds to support startup costs.
Jefferson County staff told commissioners the county has formally created an animal control department and selected a candidate to lead the unit.
Staff said four applicants were interviewed and the committee decided to hire "Cassie" as the new animal control employee; staff described a plan for three full‑time positions to support kennel operations and daily care, including one employee focused on kennel maintenance and inmate‑assisted services. "I'm just really grateful for this opportunity to better the lives of the animals in our community," Cassie said, introducing herself and noting her volunteer experience and background as a special‑education teacher.
Financial and operational context: Staff proposed using proceeds from a prior surplus sale of a sanitation building as a capital source for initial animal control expenses rather than drawing from general contingency; the clerk indicated $331,000 was received from the sale and approximately $120,000 has been spent, leaving available funds for capital improvements.
Board action: Commissioners expressed support for hiring and asked staff to return with a detailed budget and confirmation on whether the department head appointment requires formal board confirmation. Staff confirmed a budget detail will be provided at a subsequent meeting and that the new hire will start Monday.
Provenance: topicintro: "We have officially created the animal control department... We interviewed them all, and the committee has decided to move forward with hiring Cassie." (SEG 1969) topfinish: "My name is Cassie... I'm excited to implement some positive changes that will provide them with the dignity and the respect that they deserve." (SEG 2073)
Speakers quoted: Cassie (new hire); staff presenting hiring and budget details.
Ending: Staff will return with a detailed animal control budget and procurement/operations plan; the new hire is scheduled to begin on Monday.
