“I would increase accessibility to spaying and neutering services for the community, particularly for low-income pet owners.”
“I would Increase accessibility to spaying and neutering services for the community, particularly for low-income pet owners. This could involve mobile clinics, vouchers for free or discounted services, and partnerships with local veterinarians. The current Lifeline program of one event in Fulton and one event in DeKalb is not sufficient. If funding becomes an issue, at least expand the program for cats. As a City Council member we created a program to cover the TNR cost for Doraville residents to lower financial burdens to controlling the pet population.”
“I believe that some state breeding laws may usurp county ordinances.”
“Regarding the staffing inquiries, it's crucial to recognize that the budget will be introduced to the outgoing board of commissioners on December 15th. Subsequently, the incoming Board of Commissioners and CEO will deliberate and vote on it within the first 60 days of their term. This timeline affords them minimal chance to contribute meaningful changes to staffing or other key aspects for the ensuing year. While my opinion on this process might be more suitable for a separate survey, I do acknowledge that the staffing difficulties mentioned are probably prevalent across various county departments. It is imperative that the new CEO and Board of Commissioners prepare to tackle significant challenges throughout the county promptly.”
“In my experience increased pay for staff in DeKalb county seems to only change in times of crisis. The 311 center blew up so they added positions and increased the salary to $20 an hour. Public Safety was and continues to be at a crisis level before increases were approved. Sanitation and recycling is all being thrown in the same truck because the county does not have enough employees to work the routes. I am supportive of a study of all positions and pledge not to enable to culture of manufacturing crisis to force leadership.”
“Veterinary care is becoming more mostly as venture capital has consolidated this space over the years by buying out independent vets. I think we can made immediate change by expanding Spay/neuter, microchipping, and vaccinations that would have an immediate impact on the pet population.”
“I would need more information on the animal disposition hearing before making a final decision…However, The finger pointing can absolutely stop. It's important to note that the BOC [Board of Commissioners] is responsible for passing an annual budget, which encompasses funding for both the solicitor's office and the magistrate court. Notably, the magistrate court predominantly operates with part-time contract judges. It seems plausible to halt the current cycle of blame and adopt a more collaborative approach. In my perspective, a constructive step would be to coordinate with the solicitor's office and the chief magistrate to prepare a funding proposal to the BOC. This would be aimed at increasing the number of contract days for judges, allowing for the creation of additional dockets specifically dedicated to animal cases. Such an approach would ensure that these matters are addressed efficiently without reallocating resources meant for human-related cases. The proposed funding should also incorporate a Standard Operating Procedure agreed upon by both departments, mandating that arraignments be scheduled within 30 days. This would ensure swift resolution efforts on the arraignment date. Should a defendant fail to appear or request a postponement, the imposition of a bond payable to the court's registry should be required. This bond would be utilized for the care of the involved animal. I believe that this would expedite the surrender process of animals, ultimately leading to a resolution that is both timely and effective.”