Animal Rights Group Chides Middle Over Lack of Control, Enforcement

COURT HOUSE – An otherwise short Middle Township Committee meeting Feb. 1 had the public comment period run over an hour as animal rights activists urged strengthening of animal control services.
A group of over 25, a number of non-residents, sat quietly while the committee disposed of its agenda, then they focused the meeting on theirs.
Telling committee that its animal welfare ordinances were not being enforced, the group argued for greater resources for animal control and enforcement. At other moments, the passion with which individuals spoke spilled over into aggressive and confrontational language.
Group members said they wanted better enforcement of ordinances. They demanded increased hours for animal control to allow for speedy response and enforcement in the evening when, they said, animals are most vulnerable.
Individuals called for better community education on proper care of animals with emphasis on legal obligations and potential penalties.
Citing heart-wrenching stories of improperly cared for dogs, reading extensively from the existing ordinance, and challenging effectiveness of the year-old Animal Advisory Board, speakers at times became agitated calling the current efforts “a load of crap.” They suggested that statements about enforcement were “lies.” 
At other times, with passions subsided, they applauded what the township does but continued to urge more resources be devoted to the issue.
Committee member Timothy Donohue spoke for the governing body. He cited the shift away from outsourcing animal control functions to establishing a dedicated township employee in the position.
“We have someone whose single focus is the township,” he said. He spoke of setting up the Animal Advisory Board as a way of getting interested citizens involved in offering insight and advice to committee. He addressed the tougher ordinance and efforts that have resulted in a higher than ever level of licensed dogs.
Calling it “a work in progress,” Donohue said that it was a disservice to what people have done to call such efforts “crap.” He emphasized that committee has to set priorities, and despite the genuine concern for animal welfare, he saw a priority for more police officers over extra animal control personnel.
Police Chief Christopher Leusner, to whom animal control reports, corrected a number of statements made, saying that 24-hour services are available depending on the assessed need in any specific case.
He urged people to use the services. If the public does not feel it received an adequate response, he also urged they escalate their concern through established channels in the police department.
Mayor Michael Clark and Committee member Jeffrey DeVico both spoke in support of the group’s goals. 
“Everyone up here loves animals as much as you do,” DeVico said.
Clark thanked all for their comments and passion. 
“When you are passionate, sometimes you say things in ways you would otherwise not,” Clark said. Clark urged people to use available resources and report any situations where they did not get an adequate response. “We care just as you do,” he said.
To contact Vince Conti, email vconti@cmcherald.com.