As the City of Manhattan explores the future of its T. Russell Reitz Animal Shelter, city staff are looking to the Riley County Police Department to possibly absorb the contracts for the city’s animal control officers.
The city has budgeted for three, but currently has just two ACOs on the payroll. However, budget challenges within Parks & Recreation, which oversees the shelter, have prompted the city to explore its options. Law Board Chair and City Commissioner John Matta…
The move has logistical hurdles as Manhattan sits in two counties. Current animal control officers also don’t service areas outside of Manhattan’s city limits. Board member Kaleb James addressed concerns over the potential fiscal impact.
The board gave consensus to move forward on discussions as RCPD starts its budgeting process later this year.
