SAN ANGELO, Texas — An issue not on the agenda was brought to the table by citizens at Thursday's San Angelo City Council meeting - the conditions at the San Angelo Animal Shelter.
One-by-one, citizens and even leaders of other Concho Valley animal rescue organizations demanded change. After alleged pictures of the shelter were posted on social media showing animals living in conditions, many have concerns.
“There's dogs everywhere, it's like a third world country,” San Angelo resident, Jillian Haddad, said during the public comment portion of the meeting.
Sanitation, overcrowding of animals and staffing issues are some of the concerns brought up to council.
“Our shelter isn't being held in a standard of sanitation and cleanliness,” Cassie's Place Vetting Coordinator, Kristopher McGuffin, said.
“We hear you, we understand where you're coming from, we are working on a plan,” San Angelo City Manager, Daniel Valenzuela, said.
A plan in the works, something some hope will go through.
“I feel that in general, the population sees a hot topic or something that’s come up...it’s addressed and then it’s quickly dropped because it’s on to the next,” McGuffin said.
Some City Council members voiced their thoughts on what they believe is behind this issue, including Harry Thomas, SMD 3 council member.
“We’re overpopulated for one reason, and that is the citizens are not taking care...responsibility of what they need to do,” Thomas said.
Concho Valley PAWS is the San Angelo Animal Shelter’s rescue partner, contracted vendor and next door neighbor.
“I hope they will understand and realize that their facility at the shelter is not adequate for a town of this size, Concho Valley PAWS Executive Director, Jenie Wilson, said.
While no action was taken during the council meeting, citizens made their voice heard on issues that need to be solved.