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Public commenter raises concern that dog shelter fees are costing Lebanon around $1,500; board asks staff to verify
Summary
A resident told the Select Board that shelter expenses tied to lost dogs have totaled about $1,500 and warned that a $475 per‑animal shelter fee adds up; the board asked staff to verify figures and clarify the lost‑dog reporting process.
During public participation on June 16 an unnamed resident urged residents to call Animal Control Officer Carol Harris as soon as a dog is lost, saying that early reporting and a photo can help reunite pets and avoid shelter costs. The resident said town records show roughly $1,500 in shelter expenses so far and noted that the shelter charges $475 per animal that is sheltered.
"If you don't call, the shelter has to take the dog and by law they hold it 30 days, feed it, vet it and give shots," the commenter said, describing the shelter fee and process. The commenter said they posted information about the cost and faced criticism from some residents, including an individual identified in the transcript as Zachary Owen Taylor, who allegedly accused the commenter of overstating the fiscal impact.
Board members asked staff to compile the expense records and confirmed they would follow up. One Select Board member texted Animal Control Officer Carol Harris during the meeting to ask how many times she had been contacted; staff and members said they would not inundate records staff with ad‑hoc requests but would have finance/administration provide the documented expense sheet for public review.
The board did not take formal disciplinary action or change animal control policy at the meeting; rather, members asked staff to report back with the expense details so the board can address resident concerns and provide accurate public information.
Next steps: town staff will compile shelter expense records and present them at a future meeting or place them online as appropriate; Animal Control Officer Carol Harris’ reporting procedures were explained during the comment and staff will confirm the best way for residents to report lost animals.
