Draft resolution re AAC scope, 10/22/09

Resolution NO.

WHEREAS, the City of Austin’s boards and commissions serve as conduits to stakeholder groups, citizens and the City Council to discuss and strategize about City of Austin policies; and

WHEREAS, Texas State Health and Safety Code §823.005 requires the establishment of an animal advisory committee in municipalities that operate an animal shelter; and

WHEREAS, the Animal Advisory Commission was established to serve the City Council as an advisory resource on animal welfare policies; and

WHEREAS, respectful partnerships between the City of Austin, private citizens, and private agencies can result in significant beneficial animal welfare outcomes; NOW THEREFORE,

BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Austin:

The City Manager is hereby directed to prepare an ordinance amending Chapter 2-1-102 of the City Code that changes subsection (E) to:

The Commission shall:
advise the City Council on animal welfare policies, except on issues that remain within the City Manager’s sole purview, such as staffing;
advise the City Council on budget priorities identified by the Commission and the community;
promote collaboration between the City and private citizens, institutions, and agencies interested in or conducting activities relating to animal welfare in the city;
identify and implement proactive, creative approaches to engage and facilitate communication within the animal welfare community; and
foster and assist the development of animal welfare programs in the city.

The City Manager is further directed to amend Chapter 2-1-102 of the City Code that adds subsection (F):

The Commission may study, advise, and report on policy recommendations it deems effective to promote animal welfare outcomes consistent with City goals and objectives as outlined by City Council and the City Manager.