PURPOSE:

Councilmember Golonski asked for the issue of the Kennel Attendant position to be agendized.  On October 12, 2004, the City Council discussed the matter and voted to bring it to the agenda.

BACKGROUND & ANALYSIS:

During the City�s Fiscal Year (FY) 04/05 budget process the Police Department eliminated one Kennel Attendant position.  Recently, Councilmember Golonski asked to revisit whether or not this position should be returned to the budget. 

Kennel Attendants work at the Animal Shelter and are responsible for the hands-on care of the animals and maintenance of the shelter.  Historically, the Animal Shelter operated with one Kennel Attendant, but in FY 00/01, the Police Department felt it was necessary to increase staffing to two Kennel Attendants because of the number of animals entering the shelter.  These animals are kept for longer periods of time due to our shelter�s focus on adoption.  Animal care and maintenance are continuing duties that must be undertaken seven days a week.  When Kennel Attendants are not available, Animal Control Officers or volunteers are required to perform the duties, decreasing patrol time and extending response time to calls for service.  With a new Lieutenant overseeing the Animal Shelter and animal adoption rates increasing, the need for the second Kennel Attendant has never been more necessary.  Cutting the Kennel Attendant has directly affected service to the public.

FISCAL IMPACT:

Returning the Kennel Attendant position to the Police Department budget would increase the budget by approximately $48,000.  With recent budget cuts, the Police Department lacks the money to fund this position.  If City Council decides to return this position to the budget, funding would need to come from another source, such as the City�s unappropriated fund balance.

RECOMMENDATION:

Staff recommends that the City Council discuss the matter and provide direction.

THOMAS HOEFEL

Chief of Police

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