Minutes 02-17-2026 - Business Meeting

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41 Slide #24 Future Plans In 2026,we will work to develop a strategic plan to help guide us toward our goals,including: • Increasing availability and accessibility of resources o Both at our shelter and in diverting people to other county departments o In April,Animal Services will become a practicu m site for the UNC School of Social Work o Coordination with community partners to get resources to residents where needed Growing our presence in the community o Attending more events o Collaborating with community partners c Senior programming,both at the senior centers and retirement communities Providing more child education in schools and camps o Greater presence in schools o Working with DEAPR to fill educational blocks at camps Ensuring sustainability for the community animal clinic o The Clinic is a critical resource for our community's most vulnerable populations;we must ensure its success Elevating professionalism in Animal Services o Continued training and adherence to best practices Vice-Chair Fowler thanked staff for the presentation. She said she appreciates the approach of having everyone, regardless of status, being able to own and care for pets. Commissioner Bedford said that, at a future date, she would like to learn more about what the towns are contributing to Animal Control. She noted the department's role in emergency response by housing pets during natural disasters like Tropical Storm Chantal. She congratulated the department on the realization of its goal to offer full veterinary services. Commissioner McKee commended the staffs professional and effective response in a situation he became involved with at a resident's request. Chair Hamilton thanked the department for their community service while noting the importance of achieving self-sustainability given budget constraints and competing county needs. Commissioner Bedford said pets are a part of the family, and programs like these can't always be self-sustaining. She said that pet care it is a social justice issue that is worth subsidizing. 8. Consent Agenda • Removal of Any Items from Consent Agenda • Approval of Remaining Consent Agenda • Discussion and Approval of the Items Removed from the Consent Agenda A motion was made by Vice-Chair Fowler, seconded by Commissioner Carter, to approve the consent agenda. VOTE: UNANIMOUS a. Minutes for January 16, 2026 Retreat and January 20, 2026 Business Meeting The Board approved the minutes for the January 16, 2026 Retreat and January 20, 2026 Business Meeting.