REGULAR MEETING OF THE ANIMAL ADVISORY COMMISSION MONDAY, APRIL 13, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M. AUSTIN CITY HALL, ROOM 1101 301 WEST 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Animal Advisory Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, contact Nekaybaw Watson at nekaybaw.watson@austintexas.gov or 512-974-2562. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Dr. Paige Nilson, Chair, D4 Koby Ahmed, Mayor Ryan Clinton, Travis County Beatriz Dulzaides, D2 Jennifer Daniel, D6 Erin Ferguson, D8 Whitney Holt, D5 Sarah Huddelston, D9 David Loignon, D10 Julie Maron, D3 Nancy Nemer, Travis County JoAnn Norton, Parliamentarian, D7 Erin Van Landingham, D1 CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three- minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Animal Advisory Commission Regular meeting on March 9, 2026. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. 3. Staff briefing regarding monthly reports. Presentation by Monica Dangler, Director, Austin Animal Services and Jason Garza, Assistant Director, Austin Animal Services. Staff briefing regarding deceased animal recovery services. Presentation by Amy Slagle, Assistant Director, Austin Resource Recovery. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. Quarterly report from Animal Pets Alive! Presentation given by Mara Hartsell, Quality of Care Director, Austin Pets Alive! DICUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Approve the reprioritization of the legislative priority list sent to the Austin Government Relations Office in February. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding pet friendly housing policies in public funded housing developments. Approve the election of Chair. Approve the election of Vice Chair. Approve the election of Parliamentarian. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. For assistance, please contact the Liaison or TTY users’ route through 711. A person may request language access accommodations no later than 48 hours before the scheduled meeting. Please email or call Nekaybaw Watson at Austin …
ANIMAL ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MARCH 9, 2026 The Animal Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, March 9, 2026, at Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room 301 W 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Nilson called the Animal Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:00 pm. Commissioners in Attendance: Dr. Paige Nilson, Chair, D4 Jennifer Daniel, D6 Erin Ferguson, D8 David Loignon, D10 Erin Van Landingham, D1 Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Ann Linder, Vice Chair, D3 Koby Ahmed, Mayor Beatriz Dulzaides, D2 Whitney Holt, D5 Nancy Nemer, Travis County Commissioners Absent: Ryan Clinton, Travis County Sarah Huddleston, D9 Jo Anne Norton, Parliamentarian, D7 PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Robyn Katz Gonzalez – State of Animals in ATX Rochelle Vickery – Thanks to Pat Valls Trelles and Amy, Animal Control Response Concerns Julie Oliver- Capital Improvements in Bond and ADA Compliance within the Shelter Suzie Chase- Austin Pets Alive! Area Wide Adoption Event APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Animal Advisory Commission Regular Meeting on February 9, 2026. The minutes of the February 9, 2026, regular meeting of the Animal Advisory Commission was approved during the March 9, 2026, regular meeting on Commissioner Ferguson’s 1 motion, Commissioner Loignon’s second on a 10-0 vote. Commissioners Clinton, Huddelston, and Norton were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding monthly reports. Presentation by Monica Dangler, Director, Austin Animal Services and Jason Garza, Assistant Director, Austin Animal Services. Presentation given by Monica Dangler, Director, Austin Animal Services and Jason Garza, Assistant Director, Austin Animal Services. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. 6. Approve the addition of new members to the Budget Working Group. Withdrawn. Approve a FY27/FY28 Budget Recommendation to Council to convert two animal care positions to regular full-time employees from temporary employees. The motion to approve a FY27/FY28 Budget Recommendation to Council to convert two animal care positions to regular full-time employees from temporary employees was approved as amended on Chair Nilson’s motion, Commissioner Loignon’s second on a 10-0 vote. Commissioners Clinton, Huddleston, and Norton were absent. The amendment was to insert “WHEREAS, Austin Animal Services has, as one of the six priorities in the strategic plan as staff and volunteers with a specific goal to “enhance working conditions and build skilled support staff,” under the third WHEREAS statement. Approve a FY27/FY28 Budget Recommendation to Council to provide funding in the general budget for two dog …
Reports and Updates Austin Animal Services | April 13, 2026 30-60-90 Day Horizon Plan Monica Dangler, Director Accomplishments on the Horizon! Completed action items in the past 30 days Process Improvement Met with Doobert about foster management program Programs and Socials Developed marketing plan Created quarterly promo and events calendar Enhance Staffing Adjusted Animal Care Tech schedules to better meet business needs Feedback Met with groups of dog and cat volunteers Develop plan for re-opening intake Trying out different strategies Improvements to shelter presence Collaborating with volunteers for social strategy Updated the Lost & Found page on shelter website Became current with reporting data to Petco Love & Best Friends to apply for grants and compare national data 3 What does the horizon plan look like for April? 30 Community Engagement • Implement Marketing plan • Event calendar website built, but not yet updated Enhance Staffing • Continue interviewing for vacant vet techs positions • Analyze kennel cleaning study results Process Improvement • Continue work on pathways and transfer protocols • Maddie’s Fund Clinic Consultation for efficiency and S/N • Develop communication strategy for kennel space protocol on Socials 4 What does the horizon plan look like for April? 30 Foster Program • Weekly foster posts • Identify 3 dogs for foster every day • Daily foster emails • Launch Dog Day Out to 3 days a week • Develop accountability plan Develop plan for reopening intake • Ongoing process • Work with APA on community-based solutions 5 60 What does the horizon plan look like for April? Foster Program • Weekly foster posts • Identify 5 dogs for foster every day • Daily foster emails • Implement foster management tools • Offer Dog Day Out program 5 days a week Shelter and Process Improvements • Develop communication strategy for kennel space protocol on Socials • Continue recruitment for Vet Tech openings Social Presence • Update language and tone on socials • Implement Newsletter • Implement plan for socials Develop plan for reopening intake • Reduce wait-time for intake 6 What does the horizon plan look like for April? 90 Open Intake Planning • Open intake for all stray animals Foster Program • Identify 7 dogs for foster every day • Offer Dog Day Out program 7 days a week • Implement foster management tools Shelter Database • Evaluate volunteer module for effectiveness and potential future enhancements • Explore allowing …
Deceased Animal Recovery Services Austin Resource Recovery | April 13, 2026 Background Deceased animal collection provided daily, including some holidays Animals are collected from the rights-of way and the Austin Animal Center Employees assigned to north and south zones of city for collection Program does not collect livestock. Contact the county in which you reside for livestock removal: Travis County: (512) 974-0845 Williamson County: (512) 832-7000 2 Collection Process Residents contact Austin 311 via phone, online, or through app to create service request Requests completed within 24 hours of being created Domestic animals are scanned for microchips Microchip information is provided to Animal Services for pet owner notification 3 Metrics Over 6000 calls per year are processed for dead animal collection. Non-domestic animals (deer, opossum, squirrels, etc.)are largest category collected 4 Pet Search Requests All pet searches require department staff to check collection records Austin Resource Recovery received a total of 47 requests for FY25 Outcome will be provided to Animal Services to respond to resident requests 5 Cross Department Collaboration ARR collects deceased animals from the Austin Animal Center 3x per week Austin Watershed Protection retrieves deceased animals found in waterways and creates requests for ARR collection through 311 Parks and Recreation creates a service request through 311 for collection of deceased animals All other City departments create a service request through 311 for collection of deceased animals found on City property 6 Questions? Amy Slagle, Assistant Director Amy.Slagle@austintexas.gov Austin Resource Recovery
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Animal Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: [20260413-006]: Austin Pet Friendly Housing WHEREAS, Housing barriers remain one of the leading causes of pet relinquishment and families living in affordable or subsidized housing often face the greatest barriers to keeping companion animals, forcing many residents to choose between stable housing and keeping their pets; WHEREAS, 1506 pets were surrendered to Austin Animal Services in FY25 alone, in addition to an untrackable number of abandoned pets due to open intake hurdles, with conservatively $50 dollars per day being spent to maintain large dogs, and 2,500 existing publicly funded affordable housing units and approximately 49,800 subsidized housing units in Austin, making efforts to mitigate these impacts not just the compassionate choice, but the fiscally responsible one; WHEREAS, Austin Animal Services has as one of its six priorities Open Intake with a specific goal to “remove barriers to pet ownership through resources and policy change,” making it critical to identify upstream solutions that preventatively and proactively address the number of animals being surrendered to the shelter’s care or end up as homeless strays; WHEREAS, Pet-inclusive housing supports family stability, promotes public health, and reduces animal shelter intake by preventing unnecessary pet relinquishment due to housing restrictions; and that these policies are especially important for residents of affordable housing, who are disproportionately impacted by restrictive pet policies; WHEREAS, Austin has long been recognized as a national leader in animal welfare and implementing pet-inclusive housing standards in publicly funded developments would further demonstrate the City’s commitment to keeping families and their companion animals together; WHEREAS, Several states have recently adopted legislation addressing these barriers and creating models for pet-inclusive housing policy, including: 1. Nevada law requires that tenants in housing developed or rehabilitated with public affordable housing funds must be allowed to keep pets, while still permitting reasonable rules regarding sanitation, vaccination, leash requirements, and nuisance prevention. (Justia) 2. Colorado enacted legislation requiring affordable housing developments that receive public financing to permit residents to keep dogs or cats regardless of breed or size, while allowing reasonable management policies and modest limits on deposits or fees. (rentgrace.com) 3. California lawmakers have also advanced legislation aimed at ending blanket prohibitions on pets in rental housing and requiring landlords to provide reasonable justification for denying tenants the ability to keep companion animals, acknowledging that housing restrictions significantly limit access to housing for pet-owning families. (californiaglobe.com) NOW, THEREFORE, BE …
Reports and Updates Austin Animal Services | April 13, 2026 41 Dogs sitting in crates or in non-public areas that are available to adopt or foster. 27 days The average number of days available dogs spend in crates or non-public areas. 2 Any animal that is one foot or longer will have an adoption fee ONLY $5 !! Adopt now while this deal lasts!! 3 30-60-90 Day Horizon Plan Monica Dangler, Director Accomplishments on the Horizon! Completed action items in the past 30 days Process Improvement Met with Doobert about foster management program Programs and Socials Developed marketing plan Created quarterly promo and events calendar Enhance Staffing Adjusted Animal Care Tech schedules to better meet business needs Feedback Met with groups of dog and cat volunteers Develop plan for re-opening intake Trying out different strategies Improvements to shelter presence Collaborating with volunteers for social strategy Updated the Lost & Found page on shelter website Became current with reporting data to Petco Love & Best Friends to apply for grants and compare national data 5 What does the horizon plan look like for April? 30 Community Engagement • Implement Marketing plan • Event calendar website built, but not yet updated Enhance Staffing • Continue interviewing for vacant vet techs positions • Analyze kennel cleaning study results Process Improvement • Continue work on pathways and transfer protocols • Maddie’s Fund Clinic Consultation for efficiency and S/N • Develop communication strategy for kennel space protocol on Socials 6 What does the horizon plan look like for April? 30 Foster Program • Weekly foster posts • Identify 3 dogs for foster every day • Daily foster emails • Launch Dog Day Out to 3 days a week • Develop accountability plan Develop plan for reopening intake • Ongoing process • Work with APA on community-based solutions 7 60 What does the horizon plan look like for April? Foster Program • Weekly foster posts • Identify 5 dogs for foster every day • Daily foster emails • Implement foster management tools • Offer Dog Day Out program 5 days a week Shelter and Process Improvements • Develop communication strategy for kennel space protocol on Socials • Continue recruitment for Vet Tech openings Social Presence • Update language and tone on socials • Implement Newsletter • Implement plan for socials Develop plan for reopening intake • Reduce wait-time for intake 8 What does the horizon plan …
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Animal Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: [20260413-006]: Austin Pet Friendly Housing WHEREAS, Housing barriers remain one of the leading causes of pet relinquishment and families living in affordable or subsidized housing often face the greatest barriers to keeping companion animals, forcing many residents to choose between stable housing and keeping their pets; WHEREAS, 1506 pets were surrendered to Austin Animal Services in FY25 alone, in addition to an untrackable number of abandoned pets due to open intake hurdles, with conservatively $50 dollars per day being spent to maintain large dogs, and 2,500 existing publicly funded affordable housing units and approximately 49,800 subsidized housing units in Austin, making efforts to mitigate these impacts not just the compassionate choice, but the fiscally responsible one; WHEREAS, Austin Animal Services has as one of its six priorities Open Intake with a specific goal to “remove barriers to pet ownership through resources and policy change,” making it critical to identify upstream solutions that preventatively and proactively address the number of animals being surrendered to the shelter’s care or end up as homeless strays; WHEREAS, Pet-inclusive housing supports family stability, promotes public health, and reduces animal shelter intake by preventing unnecessary pet relinquishment due to housing restrictions; and that these policies are especially important for residents of affordable housing, who are disproportionately impacted by restrictive pet policies; WHEREAS, Austin has long been recognized as a national leader in animal welfare and implementing pet-inclusive housing standards in publicly funded developments would further demonstrate the City’s commitment to keeping families and their companion animals together; WHEREAS, Several states have recently adopted legislation addressing these barriers and creating models for pet-inclusive housing policy, including: 1. Nevada law requires that tenants in housing developed or rehabilitated with public affordable housing funds must be allowed to keep pets, while still permitting reasonable rules regarding sanitation, vaccination, leash requirements, and nuisance prevention. (Justia) 2. Colorado enacted legislation requiring affordable housing developments that receive public financing to permit residents to keep dogs or cats regardless of breed or size, while allowing reasonable management policies and modest limits on deposits or fees. (rentgrace.com) 3. California lawmakers have also advanced legislation aimed at ending blanket prohibitions on pets in rental housing and requiring landlords to provide reasonable justification for denying tenants the ability to keep companion animals, acknowledging that housing restrictions significantly limit access to housing for pet-owning families. (californiaglobe.com) NOW, THEREFORE, BE …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE ANIMAL ADVISORY COMMISSION MONDAY, MARCH 9, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M. AUSTIN CITY HALL, ROOM 1101 301 WEST 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Animal Advisory Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, contact Nekaybaw Watson at nekaybaw.watson@austintexas.gov or 512-974-2562. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Dr. Paige Nilson, Chair, D4 Koby Ahmed, Mayor Ryan Clinton, Travis County Beatriz Dulzaides, D2 Jennifer Daniel, D6 Erin Ferguson, D8 Ann Linder, Vice Chair, D3 Whitney Holt, D5 Sarah Huddleston, D9 David Loignon, D10 Nancy Nemer, Travis County Jo Anne Norton, Parliamentarian, D7 CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three- minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Animal Advisory Commission Regular meeting on February 9, 2026. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding monthly reports. Presentation by Monica Dangler, Director, Austin Animal Services and Jason Garza, Assistant Director, Austin Animal Services. DICUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Approve the addition of new members to the Budget Working Group. Approve a FY27/FY28 Budget Recommendation to Council to convert two animal care positions to regular full-time employees from temporary employees. Approve a FY27/FY28 Budget Recommendation to Council to provide funding in the general budget for two dog walkers. Approve a FY27/FY28 Budget Recommendation to Council to provide funding in the general budget for one animal enrichment specialist. Approve a FY27/FY28 Budget Recommendation to Council to provide funding in the general budget for expected, ongoing, necessary hardware upgrades. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. For assistance, please contact the Liaison or TTY users’ route through 711. A person may request language access accommodations no later than 48 hours before the scheduled meeting. Please email or call Nekaybaw Watson at …
ANIMAL ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES FEBRUARY 9, 2026 The Animal Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, February 9, 2026, at Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room 301 W 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Nilson called the Animal Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:00 pm. Commissioners in Attendance: Dr. Paige Nilson, Chair, D4 Ann Linder, Vice Chair, D3 Jennifer Daniel, D6 Erin Ferguson, D8 Jo Anne Norton, Parliamentarian, D7 Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Koby Ahmed, Mayor Beatriz Dulzaides, D2 Whitney Holt, D5 Sarah Huddleston, D9 Nancy Nemer, Travis County Commissioners Absent: David Loignon, D10 PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Sara Mitran – Austin Resource and Recovery Deceased Animal Procedure Robyn Katz Gonzalez – State of Animals in ATX Craig Nazor – Birds and Bats Rochelle Vickery – Dog pickup and care assistance near airport Pat Valls Trelles – Introduction and support of Rochelle Vickery Shelly Leibham – Spay and Neuter Event Reminder APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Animal Advisory Commission Regular Meeting on January 12, 2026. The minutes from the Animal Advisory Commission regular meeting on January 12, 2026 were approved during the Animal Advisory Commission regular meeting on February 9, 1 2026 on Vice Chair Linder’s motion, Parliamentarian Norton’s second on an 11-0 vote. Commissioner Loignon was absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. 3. 4. Staff briefing regarding monthly reports. Presentation by Monica Dangler, Director, Austin Animal Services and Jason Garza, Assistant Director, Austin Animal Services. Presentation given by Monica Dangler, Director, Austin Animal Services and Jason Garza, Assistant Director, Austin Animal Services. Staff briefing on the Austin Animal Services Department 30-60-90-day horizon plan. Presentation by Monica Dangler, Director, Austin Animal Services. Presentation given by Monica Dangler, Director, Austin Animal Services. Staff briefing regarding an overview of the Austin Animal Services FY 26-27 budget. Presentation by Jason Garza, Assistant Director, Austin Animal Services and Melissa Pool, Chief Administrative Officer, Austin Animal Services. Presentation given by Jason Garza, Assistant Director, Austin Animal Services and Melissa Pool, Chief Administrative Officer, Austin Animal Services. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 5. 6. Update from the Pet Friendly Policy Working Group regarding updates from previous meetings and legislative priorities. Withdrawn Update from the Strategic Plan Working Group regarding progress in most recent meeting. Update given by Commissioner Ferguson. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. Approve a list of legislative priorities to be supported by the commission for the upcoming legislative session. …
Reports and Updates Austin Animal Services | March 9, 2026 Updates and Upcoming Events March 2026 Monica Dangler, Director Upcoming Events March 22, 2026 Who Let the Dogs Out On March 22, Borracho Pro is bringing the action to the shelter for a special charity wrestling event benefiting Austin Animal Services! This event helps raise critical resources to support the animals in our care. • • • Adoptable dogs and cats onsite Shelter tours + ways to get involved Admission is donation-based! Bring in wish-list items or donate directly — every contribution goes to helping the animals!! Come for the wrestling. Stay for the animals. March 11, 2026 Upcoming Closure On March 11, Austin Animal Services will be closed for a day of staff development and training. Staff training is essential to successful and safe shelter operations in alignment with Austin Animal Services’ Five-Year Strategic Plan, the Staff and Volunteer priority, Goal 1, Strategy A and D. This month’s training will be focused on safety including CPR, Stop the Bleed, First Aid, and Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) trainings. Emergency field services will remain available throughout the closure and normal operations will resume on March 12, 2026. 3 3 30-60-90 Day Horizon Plan Monica Dangler, Director Accomplishments on the Horizon! Completed action items in the past 30 days Process Improvement Evaluation of plea process for large dogs to rescues New Programming Dog's Day Out and Paw-jama Party begin this month and are on track to expand in the future. Enhance Staffing As of Monday, March 9, there are only 3 open Vet Tech positions! Onboarding has begun and offers have been extended to candidates. Improvements to shelter database Volunteer access has been implemented! Volunteer mentors received training and access. Additional training has been scheduled for all volunteers. Initial feedback sessions conducted Engagement with staff and stakeholders is ongoing. Develop plan for re-opening intake Explored foster management tools 5 What does the horizon plan look like for March? 30 Community Engagement • Develop a marketing plan with measurable goals and performance metrics to promote • Pet placement • Events • community education and engagement • capacity management, and • emergency communications. • Create a monthly in-shelter event calendar with success metrics Enhance Staffing • Onboard 3 Vet Techs and recruit 3 additional Vet Techs • Conduct Kennel cleaning time study 6 30 What does the horizon plan look like for March? Process …
Fiscal Year 2026 February 2026 Updates and Upcoming Events March 22, 2026 Who Let the Dogs Out On March 22, Borracho Pro is bringing the action to the shelter for a special charity wrestling event benefiting Austin Animal Services! This event helps raise critical resources to support the animals in our care. Adoptable dogs and cats onsite Shelter tours + ways to get involved Admission is donation-based! Bring in wish-list items or donate directly — every contribution goes to helping the animals!! Come for the wrestling. Stay for the animals. March 11, 2026 Upcoming Closure On March 11, Austin Animal Services will be closed for a day of sta(cid:431) development and training. Sta(cid:431) training is essential to successful and safe shelter operations in alignment with Austin Animal Services’ Five-Year Strategic Plan, the Sta(cid:431) and Volunteer priority, Goal 1, Strategy A and D. This month’s training will be focused on safety including CPR, Stop the Bleed, First Aid, and Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) trainings. The public will be informed of the closure through multiple channels, including: The Austin Animal Services website 3-1-1 A media release Social media platforms Advance and day-of signage posted on campus Emergency field services will remain available throughout the closure and normal operations will resume on March 12, 2026. § 3-1-27 - Reporting by Animal Shelter (1) Number of impounded animals 35, Wildlife 2 Guinea 66 Kittens 159 Puppies 1 Reptile Fowl Rabbit Bird 289 Cats 266 Dogs Cat Dog Puppy Kitten Wildlife 823 Intakes February 2026 (FY26) saw 788 domestic animals impounded at AAS. There was an 11.46% increase from January 2026 which brought in 707 domestic animals to the shelter. This number excludes the categories of wildlife, bird (wildlife), opossums, and reptile (wildlife). (2) Number of animals euthanized a description of the animal, including age, species, and size, and the reason for euthanasia Animals Euthanized A breakdown of animals euthanized this month by species and/or age. 1 Fowl 4 Puppies 4 Dogs 6 Wildlife 28 13 Cats Animals Euthanized Animal Type Cats Wildlife Dogs Puppies Fowl Reasons for Euthanasia This chart shows the breakdown of reasons for euthanasia by animal. For example, all 6 animals euthanized for “rabies risk” were wildlife. 1 3 Puppies 2 Dogs 12 Cats 6 Wildlife 1 Puppy 1 Dog 1 Dog 1 Cat Suffering Rabies Risk Agonal DB5 Bites Injured Neurological Each …
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Animal Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: [20260309-004]: Austin Animal Services Budget Recommendation FY ’27 & FY ‘28 Regarding Animal Care Positions WHEREAS, Austin Animal Services has had two temporary positions in Animal Care that have been maintained long term and whose workload will be long term and ongoing; and WHEREAS, the city’s strategic plan includes a goal of Economic and Workforce Development; and WHEREAS, Austin Animal Services has as one of its six priorities Humane Care with a specific goal to “enhance shelter cleanliness and sanitation,” it is critical that motivated and skilled Animal Care workforce is valued and maintained; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Animal Advisory Commission encourages the Austin City Council to support the conversion of two Animal Care positions to regular full time employees from temporary employees. The estimated FY 2027 cost of this would be $169,895, which could largely be made up for by a reduction in part-time employee budget for Animal Care. Seconded By: Date of Approval: Motioned By: Vote: For: Against: Abstain: Off the dais: Absent: Attest: _____________________________________________
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Animal Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: [20260309-005]: Austin Animal Services Budget Recommendation FY ’27 & FY ‘28 Regarding Staff Dog Walkers WHEREAS, Austin Animal Services has had two positions for dog walkers that are both paid not from the general fund but from donations made to Austin Animal Services, but the services they provide are critical and on-going (at least until length of stay in the shelter for large dogs is dramatically reduced), WHEREAS, the city’s strategic plan includes a goal of Economic and Workforce Development; and WHEREAS, Austin Animal Services has as one of its six priorities Humane Care with a specific strategy to “enhance capacity to provide enrichment and socialization services,” it is critical to at least ensure that that the current dog-walking staff can be maintained regardless of donation proceeds. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Animal Advisory Commission encourages the Austin City Council to provide funding in the general budget for two staff dog walkers (Animal Enrichment Worker). The estimated FY 2027 cost of these two staff positions would be $169,895. Seconded By: Date of Approval: Motioned By: Vote: For: Against: Abstain: Off the dais: Absent: Attest: _____________________________________________
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Animal Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: [20260309-005]: Austin Animal Services Budget Recommendation FY ’27 & FY ‘28 Regarding Staff Animal Enrichment Specialist WHEREAS, Austin Animal Services has employed an animal enrichment specialist paid not from the general fund but from donations made to Austin Animal Services, but the services they provide are critical and on-going given shelter enrichment enhances adoptability of shelter animals, WHEREAS, the city’s strategic plan includes a goal of Economic and Workforce Development; and WHEREAS, Austin Animal Services has as one of its six priorities Humane Care with a specific strategy to “enhance capacity to provide enrichment and socialization services to all animals,” it is critical to at least ensure that the current enrichment specialist staff position can be maintained regardless of donation proceeds. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Animal Advisory Commission encourages the Austin City Council to provide funding in the general budget for a staff animal enrichment specialist. The estimated FY 2027 cost of this staff position would be $90,053. Seconded By: Date of Approval: Motioned By: Vote: For: Against: Abstain: Off the dais: Absent: Attest: _____________________________________________
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Animal Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: [20260309-006]: Austin Animal Services Budget Recommendation FY ’27 & FY ‘28 Regarding Expected, Ongoing, Necessary Hardware Upgrades WHEREAS, Austin Animal Services general budget does not currently include funding for expected, ongoing, necessary hardware upgrades; and WHEREAS, the city’s strategic plan includes a goal of a High-Performing Government that promotes operational efficiency; and WHEREAS, Austin Animal Services has as one of its six priorities Staff & Volunteers with a specific strategies of “[analyze] equipment needs for staff and volunteers, and take steps to address them”; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Animal Advisory Commission encourages the Austin City Council to provide funding in the general expected, ongoing, necessary hardware upgrades. Seconded By: Date of Approval: Motioned By: Vote: For: Against: Abstain: Off the dais: Absent: Attest: _____________________________________________
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Animal Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: [20260309-004]: Austin Animal Services Budget Recommendation FY ’27 & FY ‘28 Regarding Animal Care Positions WHEREAS, Austin Animal Services has had two temporary positions in Animal Care that have been maintained long term and whose workload will be long term and ongoing; and WHEREAS, the city’s strategic plan includes a goal of Economic and Workforce Development; and WHEREAS, Austin Animal Services has as one of its six priorities Humane Care with a specific goal to “enhance shelter cleanliness and sanitation,” it is critical that motivated and skilled Animal Care workforce is valued and maintained; WHEREAS, Austin Animal Services has, as one of the six priorities in the strategic plan as staff and volunteers with a specific goal to “enhance working conditions and build skilled support staff.” NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Animal Advisory Commission encourages the Austin City Council to support the conversion of two Animal Care positions to regular full time employees from temporary employees. The estimated FY 2027 cost of this would be $169,895, which could largely be made up for by a reduction in part-time employee budget for Animal Care. Date of Approval: March 9, 2026 Motioned By: Chair Nilson Seconded By: Commissioner Loignon Vote: 10-0 For: Chair Nilson, Vice Chair Linder, Commissioners Ahmed, Dulzaides, Daniel, Ferguson, Holt, Loignon, Nemer, and Van Landingham Against: Absent: Commissioners Clinton, Huddleston, Norton Attest: Nekaybaw Watson, Staff Liaison
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Animal Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: [20260309-005]: Austin Animal Services Budget Recommendation FY ’27 & FY ‘28 Regarding Staff Dog Walkers WHEREAS, Austin Animal Services has had two positions for dog walkers that are both paid not from the general fund but from donations made to Austin Animal Services, but the services they provide are critical and on-going (at least until length of stay in the shelter for large dogs is dramatically reduced), WHEREAS, the city’s strategic plan includes a goal of Economic and Workforce Development; and WHEREAS, Austin Animal Services has as one of its six priorities Humane Care with a specific strategy to “enhance capacity to provide enrichment and socialization services,” it is critical to at least ensure that that the current dog-walking staff can be maintained regardless of donation proceeds. WHEREAS, Austin Animal Services has, as one of the six priorities in the strategic plan as staff and volunteers with a specific goal to “enhance working conditions and build skilled support staff.” NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Animal Advisory Commission encourages the Austin City Council to provide funding in the general budget for two staff dog walkers (Animal Enrichment Worker). The estimated FY 2027 cost of these two staff positions would be $169,895. Date of Approval: March 9, 2026 Motioned By: Chair Nilson Seconded By: Vice Chair Linder Vote: 10-0 For: Chair Nilson, Vice Chair Linder, Commissioners Ahmed, Dulzaides, Daniel, Ferguson, Holt, Loignon, Nemer, and Van Landingham Against: Absent: Commissioners Clinton, Huddleston, Norton Attest: Nekaybaw Watson, Staff Liaison
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Animal Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: [20260309-006]: Austin Animal Services Budget Recommendation FY ’27 & FY ‘28 Regarding Staff Animal Enrichment Specialist WHEREAS, Austin Animal Services has employed an animal enrichment specialist paid not from the general fund but from donations made to Austin Animal Services, but the services they provide are critical and on-going given shelter enrichment enhances adoptability of shelter animals, WHEREAS, the city’s strategic plan includes a goal of Economic and Workforce Development; and WHEREAS, Austin Animal Services has as one of its six priorities Humane Care with a specific strategy to “enhance capacity to provide enrichment and socialization services to all animals,” it is critical to at least ensure that the current enrichment specialist staff position can be maintained regardless of donation proceeds. WHEREAS, Austin Animal Services has, as one of the six priorities in the strategic plan as staff and volunteers with a specific goal to “enhance working conditions and build skilled support staff.” NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Animal Advisory Commission encourages the Austin City Council to provide funding in the general budget for a staff animal enrichment specialist. The estimated FY 2027 cost of this staff position would be $90,053. Date of Approval: March 9, 2026 Motioned By: Chair Nilson Seconded By: Commissioner Nemer Vote: 10-0 For: Chair Nilson, Vice Chair Linder, Commissioners Ahmed, Dulzaides, Daniel, Ferguson, Holt, Loignon, Nemer, and Van Landingham Against: Absent: Commissioners Clinton, Huddleston, Norton Attest: Nekaybaw Watson, Staff Liaison
. RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL Animal Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: [20260309-007]: Austin Animal Services Budget Recommendation FY ’27 & FY ‘28 Regarding Expected, Ongoing, Necessary Hardware Upgrades WHEREAS, Austin Animal Services general budget does not currently include funding for expected, ongoing, necessary hardware upgrades; and WHEREAS, the city’s strategic plan includes a goal of a High-Performing Government that promotes operational efficiency; and WHEREAS, Austin Animal Services has as one of its six priorities Staff & Volunteers with a specific strategies of “[analyze] equipment needs for staff and volunteers, and take steps to address them;” NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Animal Advisory Commission encourages the Austin City Council to provide funding in the general expected, ongoing, necessary hardware upgrades. Date of Approval: March 9, 2026 Motioned By: Chair Nilson Seconded By: Commissioner Dulzaides Vote: 10-0 For: Chair Nilson, Vice Chair Linder, Commissioners Ahmed, Dulzaides, Daniel, Ferguson, Holt, Loignon, Nemer, and Van Landingham Against: Absent: Commissioners Clinton, Huddleston, Norton Attest: Nekaybaw Watson, Staff Liaison
ANIMAL ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MARCH 9, 2026 The Animal Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, March 9, 2026, at Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room 301 W 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Nilson called the Animal Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:00 pm. Commissioners in Attendance: Dr. Paige Nilson, Chair, D4 Jennifer Daniel, D6 Erin Ferguson, D8 David Loignon, D10 Erin Van Landingham, D1 Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Ann Linder, Vice Chair, D3 Koby Ahmed, Mayor Beatriz Dulzaides, D2 Whitney Holt, D5 Nancy Nemer, Travis County Commissioners Absent: Ryan Clinton, Travis County Sarah Huddleston, D9 Jo Anne Norton, Parliamentarian, D7 PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Robyn Katz Gonzalez – State of Animals in ATX Rochelle Vickery – Thanks to Pat Valls Trelles and Amy, Animal Control Response Concerns Julie Oliver- Capital Improvements in Bond and ADA Compliance within the Shelter Suzie Chase- Austin Pets Alive! Area Wide Adoption Event APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Animal Advisory Commission Regular Meeting on February 9, 2026. The minutes of the February 9, 2026, regular meeting of the Animal Advisory Commission was approved during the March 9, 2026, regular meeting on Commissioner Ferguson’s 1 motion, Commissioner Loignon’s second on a 10-0 vote. Commissioners Clinton, Huddelston, and Norton were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding monthly reports. Presentation by Monica Dangler, Director, Austin Animal Services and Jason Garza, Assistant Director, Austin Animal Services. Presentation given by Monica Dangler, Director, Austin Animal Services and Jason Garza, Assistant Director, Austin Animal Services. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. 6. Approve the addition of new members to the Budget Working Group. Withdrawn. Approve a FY27/FY28 Budget Recommendation to Council to convert two animal care positions to regular full-time employees from temporary employees. The motion to approve a FY27/FY28 Budget Recommendation to Council to convert two animal care positions to regular full-time employees from temporary employees was approved as amended on Chair Nilson’s motion, Commissioner Loignon’s second on a 10-0 vote. Commissioners Clinton, Huddleston, and Norton were absent. The amendment was to insert “WHEREAS, Austin Animal Services has, as one of the six priorities in the strategic plan as staff and volunteers with a specific goal to “enhance working conditions and build skilled support staff,” under the third WHEREAS statement. Approve a FY27/FY28 Budget Recommendation to Council to provide funding in the general budget for two dog …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE ANIMAL ADVISORY COMMISSION MONDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M. AUSTIN CITY HALL, ROOM 1101 301 WEST 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Animal Advisory Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, contact Nekaybaw Watson at nekaybaw.watson@austintexas.gov or 512-974-2562. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Dr. Paige Nilson, Chair, D4 Koby Ahmed, Mayor Ryan Clinton, Travis County Beatriz Dulzaides, D2 Jennifer Daniel, D6 Erin Ferguson, D8 Ann Linder, Vice Chair, D3 Whitney Holt, D5 Sarah Huddleston, D9 David Loignon, D10 Nancy Nemer, Travis County Jo Anne Norton, Parliamentarian, D7 CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three- minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Animal Advisory Commission Regular meeting on January 12, 2026. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. 3. 4. Staff briefing regarding monthly reports. Presentation by Monica Dangler, Director, Austin Animal Services and Jason Garza, Assistant Director, Austin Animal Services. Staff briefing on the Austin Animal Services Department 30-60-90-day horizon plan. Presentation by Monica Dangler, Director, Austin Animal Services. Staff briefing regarding an overview of the Austin Animal Services FY 26 budget. Presentation by Jason Garza, Assistant Director, Austin Animal Services. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 5. 6. Update from the Pet Friendly Policy Working Group regarding updates from previous meetings and legislative priorities. Update from the Strategic Plan Working Group regarding progress in most recent meeting. DICUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. 8. Approve a list of legislative priorities to be supported by the commission for the upcoming legislative session. Approve the formation and membership of a Budget Working Group in creating budget recommendations for the FY27 budget. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. For assistance, please contact the Liaison or TTY users’ route through 711. A person …
ANIMAL ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES JANUARY 12, 2026 The Animal Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, January 12, 2026, at Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room 301 W 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Nilson called the Animal Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:00 pm. Commissioners in Attendance: Dr. Paige Nilson, Chair, D4 Ann Linder, Vice Chair, D3 Beatriz Dulzaides, D2 David Loignon, D10 Jennifer Daniel, D6 Jo Anne Norton, Parliamentarian, D7 Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Erin Ferguson, D8 Nancy Nemer, Travis County Commissioners Absent: Koby Ahmed, Mayor Ryan Clinton, Travis County Whitney Holt, D5 Sarah Huddelston, D9 PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Robyn Katz Gonzalez – State of the Shelter Sandra Muller – No Kill Rochele Vickrey – New Staff Changes APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Animal Advisory Commission Regular Meeting on December 8, 2025. The minutes from the Animal Advisory Commission regular meeting on December 8, 2025 were approved during the Animal Advisory Commission regular meeting on January 12, 1 2026 as amended by Chair Nilson on Vice Chair Linder’s motion, Commissioner Dulzaides’ second on an 8-0. Commissioners Ahmed, Clinton, Holt and Huddleston were absent. The amendment was to strike Parliamentarian Norton’s name from the Commissioners in Attendance Remotely. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding monthly reports. Presentation by Rolando Fernandez, Interim Chief Animal Services Officer, Austin Animal Services. Presentation given by Rolando Fernandez, Interim Chief Animal Services Officer, Austin Animal Services and Jason Garza, Deputy Animal Services Officer, Austin Animal Services. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. Presentation from Stephanie Bilbro, Director of Operations, Austin Pets Alive! regarding the quarterly reports and an update on the Barn Cats Program. Presentation given by Stephanie Bilbro, Director of Operations; Mara, Quality of Care Director; and Rory Adams, Director of Strategic Customer Service, Austin Pets Alive!. Final update on the recruitment process for the Austin Animal Services Director by Susana Carbajal, Assistant City Manager. Update given by Susana Carbajal, Assistant City Manager. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve a list of legislative priorities to be supported by recommendation for the upcoming legislative session. The motion to write a letter to Carrie Rogers, of the Austin Government Relations, to request an extension of time to compile and share legislative priorities until February 9, 2026 was approved on Chair Nilson’s motion, Vice Chair Linder’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Ahmed, Clinton, Holt and Huddleston were …
Legislation Priorities 2/9/2026 Agenda ● Review our ask ● Texas Spay/Neuter Pilot Program ● Review Legislation Priorities ● Review Suggestions for Future Consideration ● Motion to Submit Priorities and Commissioner Contacts ● Discuss Priorities/Suggestions ● Amend Motion to Remove/Change Priorities and/or Contacts ● Present/Consider Additional Priorities/Contacts ● Amend Motion with Additional Priorities/Contacts ● Vote to Submit the List to the COA Government Relations Office Our Ask December 4, 2025 email from Government Relations: Please let us know if there are any legislative items your board or commission wishes to bring forward for consideration by City Council in its adopted 2027 state and federal legislative programs by January 30, 2026. Our goal is to have a good working list by the end of January, and we will concurrently spend a couple of months working through the items, following up, and ultimately bringing forward items to the City Council for consideration. Note: Extension granted so we could vote on a list at our 2/9/2026 meeting 2025 Texas Spay/Neuter Pilot Program (TXSPN) Request supporting continued funding ● Managed by the Department of State Health Services (DSHS) ● ● Grants will provide direct financial support for spay/neuter services for dogs and cats $13 Million paid out 2026-2027 ○ All counties eligible ○ Dogs and cats owned by or in the custody of Texas residents, rescue organizations, animal shelters and government entities ● Does not impact “Animal Friendly Program” that subsidizes spay/neuter via license plate revenue ● Austin/Travis County Impact: Potential Funding to continue successful spay/neuter events Of Note While legislative changes at the State level are best, if viability is not there, a carve out giving counties their own legal authority to implement change would be an acceptable alternative. Priority Legislation to Support ● Virtual Veterinary Care/Telemedicine in Texas ○ Promoted by the Texas Humane Legislation Network ○ 89th Session - Senate Bill SB1442; House Bill HB3364 ○ AAS Veterinarian Dr Debbie Elliott testified in favor of this bill ○ Austin/Travis County Impact: ■ Less stress on pets going into the office ■ Makes it easier for aging adults and people with disabilities to own/keep their pets ■ Increases access to care for people who rely on public transportation or live in rural areas ■ Pets may get care they won’t otherwise get Priorities, continued ● Ethical Pet Sales Bill ○ Promoted by the Texas Humane Legislation Network ○ Stop puppy mills ○ ○ …
Fiscal Year 2026 January 2026 Updates and Upcoming Events FREE Spay/Neuter Event February 26 – March 2, 2026 11580 Stonehollow Dr., Austin, TX 78758 Participants must live in Austin or Travis County. “Enduring Service” Program Launched! AAS partnered with the Rehabilitation and Reentry Division at Travis County State Jail to launch the Enduring Service initiative. Enduring Service pairs eligible AAS dogs with incarcerated Veterans to help train, enrich, and care for the dogs. This program will help develop transferable skills to increase chances of employment upon release for participating Veterans. 12 dogs have been successfully placed at TCSJ at this time. Adoption Event Be My Pawlentine! February 13 – 15, 2026 $14 Adoption fees! Craft station to make a valentine for your favorite shelter pet, volunteer or staff member! Volunteers onsite to match you with your next true love! Shout out! Staff, Volunteers, Community members & Fosters! Several staff members went above and beyond by staying at the shelter during the cold weather event to care for all the animals. They were supported by volunteers who helped provide enrichment and care. In preparation for the weather, Foster Coordinators were able to get almost 90 dogs and cats out the door and into foster applications were warm, received, and 50 adoptions took place that weekend despite the icy conditions! foster homes. 112 § 3-1-27 - Reporting by Animal Shelter (1) Number of impounded animals January 2026 (FY26) saw 705 domestic animals impounded at AAS. There was an 12.4% increase from December 2025 which brought in 627 domestic animals to the shelter. the This number excludes categories of wildlife, bird (wildlife), opossums, and reptile (wildlife). 3 3 2 (2) Number of animals euthanized a description of the animal, including age, species, and size, and the reason for euthanasia Animal Breed Dog Dog Kitten Reptile (Wildlife) Bird (wildlife) Spanish Mastiff American Pit Bull Terrier Domestic Shorthair Turtle Goose - Brant Reason Aggression Court Order Injured Injured Injured Mammal Bat - Unspecified Rabies Risk Mammal Bat - Unspecified Rabies Risk Mammal Bat - Unspecified Rabies Risk Mammal Mammal Mammal Mammal Mammal Cat Rabbit Cat Cat Dog Cat Cat Skunk - Striped Bat - Little Brown Myotis Raccoon Skunk - Striped Bat - Little Brown Myotis Domestic Long Hair Bunny Rabbit Domestic Shorthair Domestic Shorthair American Pit Bull Terrier Domestic Medium Hair Domestic Shorthair Puppy Labrador Retriever Cat Cat Cat Dog Cat American Shorthair Domestic …
Outcome vs. Intake FY 26 Information is from October 1, 2025 – January 31, 2026 Intake Year (fiscal) Dog totals Cat totals Totals Outcome Year (fiscal) Dog totals Cat totals Totals Difference of outcomes - intakes Dog totals Cat totals Totals Cats - Outcomes Adoption RTO/RTO Adopt Transfer Euthanasia Died Missing SNR (former SCRP) Total Dog - Outcomes Adoption RTO/RTO Adopt Transfer Euthanasia Died Missing Total 2026 1318 1664 2982 2026 1338 1854 3192 2026 20 190 210 2026 1218 82 243 94 40 2 195 1874 2026 656 258 367 42 13 2 1338
Reports and Updates Reports and Updates Austin Animal Services | February 9, 2026 Updates and Upcoming Events January 2026 Monica Dangler, Director Upcoming Events For AAS and the Community Adoption Event Be My Pawlentine! February 13 – 15, 2026 $14 Adoption fees! Craft station to make a valentine for your favorite shelter pet, volunteer or staff member! Volunteers onsite to match you with your next true love! FREE Spay/Neuter Event February 26 – March 2, 2026 11580 Stonehollow Dr., Austin, TX 78758 Participants must live in Austin or Travis County. 3 3 Thank you! Staff, Volunteers, Community Members & Fosters! Several staff members went above and beyond by staying at the shelter during the cold weather event last month to care for all the animals. They were supported by volunteers who helped provide enrichment and care. In preparation for the weather, Foster Coordinators were able to get almost 90 dogs and cats out the door and into warm, foster homes. foster applications 112 were received, and 50 adoptions took place that weekend icy conditions! despite the 4 Enduring Service Partnership Program Launched in January AAS has partnered with the Rehabilitation and Reentry Division at Travis County State Jail to launch the Enduring Service initiative. Enduring Service pairs eligible AAS dogs with incarcerated Veterans to help train, enrich, and care for the dogs. This program will help develop transferable skills to increase chances of employment upon release for participating Veterans. 9 dogs have been successfully placed at TCSJ at this time. 5 30-60-90 Day Horizon Plan January 2026 Monica Dangler, Director Horizon Plan 30-60-90 days Action items to launch in the next 30 days New Programming Dog's Day Out Paw-jama Party Enhance Staffing Recruit and onboard 6 Vet Technicians Kennel cleaning time study Develop plan for re-opening intake Improvements to shelter database Volunteer access Gather Feedback Develop action plans with staff and stakeholders Community Engagement Increased frequency of press releases Daily social media presence Create a monthly in- shelter event calendar with success metrics Process Improvement Pathway planning to assist animals’ movement Establish guidelines for kitten transfers Evaluation and plea process for large dogs to rescues 7 7 Monthly Reporting January 2026 Jason Garza, Assistant Director § 3-1-27 - Reporting by Animal Shelter Number of impounded animals January 2026 (FY26) saw 705 domestic animals impounded at AAS. There was an 12.4% increase from December 2025 which brought in 627 domestic animals …
ANIMAL ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES FEBRUARY 9, 2026 The Animal Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, February 9, 2026, at Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room 301 W 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Nilson called the Animal Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:00 pm. Commissioners in Attendance: Dr. Paige Nilson, Chair, D4 Ann Linder, Vice Chair, D3 Jennifer Daniel, D6 Erin Ferguson, D8 Jo Anne Norton, Parliamentarian, D7 Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Koby Ahmed, Mayor Beatriz Dulzaides, D2 Whitney Holt, D5 Sarah Huddleston, D9 Nancy Nemer, Travis County Commissioners Absent: David Loignon, D10 PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Sara Mitran – Austin Resource and Recovery Deceased Animal Procedure Robyn Katz Gonzalez – State of Animals in ATX Craig Nazor – Birds and Bats Rochelle Vickery – Dog pickup and care assistance near airport Pat Valls Trelles – Introduction and support of Rochelle Vickery Shelly Leibham – Spay and Neuter Event Reminder APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Animal Advisory Commission Regular Meeting on January 12, 2026. The minutes from the Animal Advisory Commission regular meeting on January 12, 2026 were approved during the Animal Advisory Commission regular meeting on February 9, 1 2026 on Vice Chair Linder’s motion, Parliamentarian Norton’s second on an 11-0 vote. Commissioner Loignon was absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. 3. 4. Staff briefing regarding monthly reports. Presentation by Monica Dangler, Director, Austin Animal Services and Jason Garza, Assistant Director, Austin Animal Services. Presentation given by Monica Dangler, Director, Austin Animal Services and Jason Garza, Assistant Director, Austin Animal Services. Staff briefing on the Austin Animal Services Department 30-60-90-day horizon plan. Presentation by Monica Dangler, Director, Austin Animal Services. Presentation given by Monica Dangler, Director, Austin Animal Services. Staff briefing regarding an overview of the Austin Animal Services FY 26-27 budget. Presentation by Jason Garza, Assistant Director, Austin Animal Services and Melissa Pool, Chief Administrative Officer, Austin Animal Services. Presentation given by Jason Garza, Assistant Director, Austin Animal Services and Melissa Pool, Chief Administrative Officer, Austin Animal Services. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 5. 6. Update from the Pet Friendly Policy Working Group regarding updates from previous meetings and legislative priorities. Withdrawn Update from the Strategic Plan Working Group regarding progress in most recent meeting. Update given by Commissioner Ferguson. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. Approve a list of legislative priorities to be supported by the commission for the upcoming legislative session. …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE ANIMAL ADVISORY COMMISSION MONDAY, JANUARY 12, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M. AUSTIN CITY HALL, ROOM 1101 301 WEST 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Animal Advisory Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, contact Nekaybaw Watson at nekaybaw.watson@austintexas.gov or 512-974-2562. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Dr. Paige Nilson, Chair, D4 Koby Ahmed, Mayor Ryan Clinton, Travis County Beatriz Dulzaides, D2 Jennifer Daniel, D6 Erin Ferguson, D8 Ann Linder, Vice Chair, D3 Whitney Holt, D5 Sarah Huddleston, D9 David Loignon, D10 Nancy Nemer, Travis County Jo Anne Norton, Parliamentarian, D7 CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three- minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Animal Advisory Commission Regular meeting on December 8, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding monthly reports. Presentation by Rolando Fernandez, Interim Chief Animal Services Officer, Austin Animal Services. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Presentation from Stephanie Bilbro, Director of Operations, Austin Pets Alive! regarding the quarterly reports and an update on the Barn Cats Program. 4. Final update on the recruitment process for the Austin Animal Services Director by Susana Carbajal, Assistant City Manager. DICUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve a list of legislative priorities to be supported by recommendations for the upcoming legislative session. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. For assistance, please contact the Liaison or TTY users’ route through 711. A person may request language access accommodations no later than 48 hours before the scheduled meeting. Please email or call Nekaybaw Watson at Austin City Clerk’s Office, at nekaybaw.watson@austintexas.gov or 512-974- 2562 to request service or for additional information. For more information on the Animal Advisory Commission, please contact Nekaybaw Watson at nekaybaw.watson@austintexas.gov or 512-974-2562.
ANIMAL ADVISORY COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES 12.08.2025 ANIMAL ADVISORY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2025 The Animal Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, December 8, 2025, at Austin City Hall 301 W 2nd Street, Room 1101 Austin, Texas. Chair Nilson called the Animal Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Dr. Paige Nilson, Chair, D4 Jennifer Daniel, D6 Beatriz Dulzaides, D2 Erin Ferguson, D8 Jo Anne Norton, D7 Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Ann Linder, Vice Chair, D3 Koby Ahmed, Mayor Ryan Clinton, Travis County Whitney Holt, D5 Sarah Huddleston, D9 Nancy Nemer, Travis County Jo Anne Norton, Parliamentarian, D7 Commissioners Absent: David Loignon, D10 PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Robyn Katz Gonzales- State of Animals in Austin Beverly Luna- General Animal Issues and Emergency Services Andrea Greig-Shelter Procedures Rochelle Vickery- Happy Holidays and Good Fix Julie Oliver- Unjust Termination Pia Phillips- Meeting Procedures Pat Valls Trelles- History of No Kill in Austin 1 ANIMAL ADVISORY COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES 12.08.2025 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Animal Advisory Commission regular meeting on November 10, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of November 10, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Norton’s motion, Commissioner Dulzaides’ second on a 10-0 vote. Commissioner Clinton abstained. Commissioner Holt was off the dais. Commissioner Loignon was absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding monthly reports. Presentation by Rolando Fernandez, Interim Chief Animal Services Officer, Austin Animal Services. The presentation was made by Jason Garza, Deputy Director of Animal Services, Austin Animal Services and Rolando Fernandez, Interim Chief Animal Services Officer, Austin Animal Services. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Update on the recruitment process for the Austin Animal Services Director. Presentation by Rodney Crain, Senior Consultant, MGT. Presentation was made by Rodney Crain, Senior Consultant, MGT. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Will be emailed to staff liaison. The motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:48 p.m. was approved on Commissioner Daniel’s motion, Commissioner Dulzaides’ second without objection. The minutes were approved at the DATE meeting on BOARD MEMBER’s motion, BOARD MEMBER second on a (vote count). 2 ANIMAL ADVISORY COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES 12.08.2025 3
