Auditor to scrutinize Animal Services

The Office of the City Auditor is starting work on an audit of the city’s Animal Services Office as directed by Council in a resolution this summer. As part of the audit, community members are invited to talk about their experiences with the shelter at one of three public meetings, starting next Monday from 6:30-8 p.m. at the North Village Branch Library, 2505 Steck Ave. A second meeting will be virtual via WebEx on Wednesday, Nov. 2, 6:30-8 p.m. The third meeting will be in the City Hall Boards and Commission room at 301W. 2nd St. on Nov. 10, 6:30-8 p.m. The auditor’s office plans to hire an external animal sheltering expert knowledgeable in no-kill policies and practices to assist in identifying strategies and recommendations for improved flow of operations, quality care of animals, and a successful, sustainable no-kill shelter. Auditors are expecting recommendations from the public on an expert to help them with the audit. The audit team is also asking community members for their views on the areas of greatest concern regarding animal services. The public input will assist the auditors in narrowing down the focus areas. The audit is expected to be completed by January.