Animal Services Advisory Board

Meetings

Date & Time: TBD

Overview

The Gates County Animal Services Advisory Board (Board) serves as an advisory body to the Gates County Board of Commissioners (BOCC) on matters related to animal control and enforcement services within Gates County. The Board provides community input, recommendations, and guidance to enhance the effectiveness, efficiency, and compassion of animal services operations.

Who Serves on the Committee?

·         One voting member is appointed from each voting district (9 total voting member seats).

·         Non-voting members may include one county commissioner, county staff from County Administration, Animal Control, and other departments.

·         Members serve staggered three-year terms and may be reappointed; after two consecutive terms, member must step down for at least one year.

Leadership Roles

The Board will elect a Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary each year.

·         Chair leads meetings, works with staff to set agendas, speaks on behalf of the Board, and presents recommendations to the BOCC.

·         Vice Chair fills in when the Chair is absent.

·         Secretary records minutes, tracks attendance, verifies quorum, and maintains official records.

Meetings and Decisions

·         The Board meets on an as-needed basis, but shall meet quarterly at a minimum, typically in January, April, July, and October.

·         Recommendations are adopted by majority vote of members present.

Communication with the BOCC

·         An annual report is submitted to the BOCC summarizing key activities, recommendations, and priorities.

·         Formal recommendations are provided in writing and presented by the Chair or designee.

·         Communication occurs through reports, memoranda, liaison participation, and BOCC meeting presentations as needed.

Ethics and Conduct

Members must:

·         Disclose and avoid conflicts of interest.

·         Follow county ethics policies.

·         Treat others respectfully and focus on issues rather than individuals.

·         Support decisions made by the Board, even when they disagree personally.

Amendment and Conclusion

·         The Board reviews its Rules of Procedure each year and may recommend updates.

·         Changes require approval from both the Advisory Board and the BOCC.

Public Participation

Meetings of the Animal Services Advisory Board are a public function, and members of the public are invited to attend.

Agendas & Minutes

Agendas will be available before the meetings. Minutes are available after approval.

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA)