Sandy Oaks council demotes animal‑control supervisor after executive session

After completing an executive session on personnel matters, the council returned to open session and voted on disciplinary action involving Animal Control Officer Ashley Cunningham. Council cited two concerns in the executive session: (1) an incident in which an animal in a severe state of decay was buried rather than held for veterinary or evidence processes, and (2) distribution of prescription medication across animals in a way the council considered inappropriate.

The motion — made and seconded in open session — directed a demotion of Ashley Cunningham to the ACO deputy position, a reduction in pay of "a dollar 50" (as recorded in the motion text), and a written reprimand to be placed in her permanent file. The motion carried by a 4–1 vote. Cunningham defended her actions in the meeting, saying she believed she had followed prior direction and, "In hindsight, I believe we could have" retained the animal, but said she acted based on prior guidance and logistical constraints at the time.

Why it matters: The action stems from both animal‑welfare handling questions and potential improper distribution of federally regulated medication. Council repeatedly noted that some of the conduct cited could be fireable under Texas risk‑management advice, but weighed the employee's past service in choosing a lesser penalty. The council also requested training and clearer written procedures so field staff have explicit direction in similar situations.