Agenda - 11-19-2002-9a - Laserfiche WebLink

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~o • Records-keeping • Rules codification and review • Governing structure • Methods for assuring continuous public feedback into the process • Structure of the APS Board to include BOCC representative • BOCC definition of values/goals/objectives necessary to animal sheltering services The Board of Health Animal Control and Environmental Health Committee discussed at length how to encourage diverse members of the public in providing input so that it will be useful in moving forward with future changes in animal sheltering operations. The descriptions of the external assessments from both organizations seemed to consider public input but not to the extent that seems to be of interest here. The Board of Health Committee is recommending that a public process focus on • A future orientation • Input from the entire county • Include both interpersonal and written input methods (focus groups, key informant interviews, and/or surveys) And that the content be focused on • Services expected from the shelter • Top three goals for the shelter • Description of good customer service The Committee would encourage hiring a paid facilitator (perhaps through Dispute Settlement Center) to identify and group major areas of concern by staffing two focus groups, one in northern Orange and one in southern Orange. The Committee felt that having this done prior to the external consultant starting their analysis might provide additional public input and focus to the consultant's assessment. In examining the descriptions of the services offered by the HSUS or the AHA, the Committee did not feel there was adequate information to make a recommendation of one organization over another. Staff was directed to solicit comments by some of the references listed in the HSUS consultation description and to contact AHA for similar references. The Reference Check Report (attached) provides details on the conversations with four HSUS clients. HSUS's evaluation for the city of Sacramento California is also available online at the following website: www.pw.sacto.org/animalcare/. It is clear from all the references that specific recommendations for improvement are included in each HSUS report as well as an extensive analysis. Key stakeholder interviews are a part of their process. AHA has been slower to respond to our request for references. AHA's Program Director noted to Mr. Sauls in a telephone conversation that AHA's consultation program was best used if an agency could specifically identify an area needing improvement. AHA is not accustomed to comprehensive organizational assessments and suggested that HSUS is more accustomed to the comprehensive approach. The APS Board of Directors at their October meeting expressed their willingness to request an external assessment of the shelter operations and also has no problem with either organization proposed. They have expressed a willingness to make changes in the shelter operations; some