The citizens of Alpena County, Michigan deserve more than the ‘bare minimum’ required by the state for animal control. We currently have what the state is envisioning for the future of Animal Control Officer departments. What we do not have is adequate space needed. There are numerous aspects of that position that require someone with knowledge of how to care and control all types of animals including dangerous ones such as dogs. We currently have that person, Michelle Reid, as our ACO working under the sheriff’s office as a deputy. This allows her to enforce the current laws.

Contrary to what Commissioner Mr. LaHaie stated about Alpena simply having a ‘dog-catcher that they could get anyone off of the street to do that’, those days are far over. Laws have changed on how our animals are to be cared for. That has also led to people reporting those who are abusing and hoarding animals. There are also many people who give time, money, and supplies to help care for those animals in the Alpena County Sheriff’s Office of Animal Control. Years before, the part-time ‘dog-catcher’s’ salary was not listed in the ACO budget. The budget amounts listed on the survey by County Administrator Hannah don’t look nearly the same as the ones that Steve Schulwitz shared in a story recently. I do believe this was a direct attempt to give citizens apprehension about keeping our ACO and shelter as is.

Last fall, ACO Reid was honored as Animal Control Officer of the year by other ACO’s around the state. If they think she is doing a good job, perhaps we should listen to them. Let your Alpena County Commissioners hear your voice.

Bottom line, we need that shelter to at least remain as is, not cut it up and down.

NANCY McSWAIN,

Alpena