We are asking the three cities involved in Tri-Cities Animal Services/Shelter to create a Community Oversight Committee now, and to include at least 2–3 members from each city.

For years, we have been requesting an oversight committee for Tri-Cities Animal Services/Shelter. The three cities are now reviewing policies and deciding whether this facility will be a shelter or a pound. That decision should not be made without meaningful community input and clear public oversight.

This committee should not be limited to rescues alone. It should include volunteers and leaders from each city, people who know the day-to-day needs of the community and can help keep the process fair, transparent, and accountable. We need a group that can look closely at policies, listen to residents, and help make sure the facility is serving animals and the public with care and responsibility.

A Community Oversight Committee would give people a real voice in how Tri-Cities Animal Services/Shelter is run. It would help build trust, improve communication between the cities and the community, and ensure that important decisions are not made behind closed doors.

We urge the three cities to move forward with creating this committee as part of the current policy review, and to make sure each city is represented by at least 2–3 members who are committed to the well-being of the community and the animals in its care.