Letter to the Editor: Urges Animal Control change in Charles City

I read with interest the article in the Chronicle about the animal adoption committee that was voted down and our rate of animal euthanization. Of more interest, I would like to know when Charles City is going to step up to the plate and integrate Animal Control into the sheriff’s department like most localities have already done.

Look at New Kent, James City, Hanover, and Henrico. They have already done this. More police protection is always a priority in Charles City, and it only makes sense to have another trained deputy along with part-time persons in Animal Control patrolling the roads and protecting the citizens.

These additional deputies will also be adding to our revenue base whereas now Animal Control is a one-way street with tax dollars. It will be refreshing to see less Charles City Animal Control vehicles going into Colonial Downs, McDonald’s, the Sportsman Tavern and other businesses in New Kent on a regular basis.

Seeing Charles City vehicles at the “Grill” on a Friday or Saturday night doesn’t project the professional image we need.

I envision a day when Charles City Animal Control operates in a professional, courteous manner instead of a loud, boisterous “I’ll shoot your animal” type of mentality. I also envision a day when we have more deputies patrolling our roads, answering calls, and offering additional safety to citizens when it can be accomplished without burdening our tax dollars.

Charles City, it’s time to bring this item into the 21st century. We cannot keep doing it the way we have in the past. There is a better way.

Rodney Guerin
Providence Forge