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Volunteers and residents press Council for fixes at Hamilton Animal Shelter
Summary
Residents and volunteers urged the Council to address staffing, volunteer training and marketing at the Hamilton Animal Shelter; the administration promised reevaluations of certain dogs and a progress report to the Board of Health.
Multiple volunteers and residents used the public-comment period to press the Township for improvements at the Animal Shelter, citing understaffing, dogs kept in crates, inconsistent outdoor time, and insufficient marketing. A shelter volunteer identified only as Jason described a "Buddy Program" that allows volunteers to take a dog home for 24 hours; volunteer and resident Ms. Lisa Williams said marketing and daily postings were insufficient and recommended a dedicated committee.
Business Administrator Kathryn Monzo acknowledged shortcomings, said the shelter has "partnered with a rescue organization" to assess certain dogs in foster care, and confirmed the Township is advertising for a part-time Volunteer Coordinator. Council President Papero said there "is no reason why daily updates cannot be provided," and directed that a progress report be prepared for the next Board of Health meeting. Councilmembers repeatedly urged filling the Volunteer Coordinator position and supported additional volunteer training.
