The Milwaukee Post

10 • Milwaukee Post • June 21, 2013 MADACC wants to limit hours police can turn in strays By DAVE FIDLIN Special to The Post 4550 S. 27th Street, Suite B, Milwaukee, WI 53221 414-395-8606 1136 Miller Park Way, West Milwaukee, WI 53214 414-383-4236 8171 S Howell Avenue, Oak Creek, WI 53154 414-764-6304 1428 E Brady Street, Milwaukee, WI 53202 414-763-4061 WEST MILWAUKEE – Citing it as a financial issue, the head of Milwaukee County's animal shelter is calling on local elected leaders to create a uniform policy for turning in strays. Karen Sparapani, executive director of the West Milwaukee-based Milwaukee Area Domestic Animal Control Commission, came before the Intergovernmental Cooperation Council of Milwaukee County last week with a request. Addressing the ICC's membership of mayors and village presidents across the county, Sparapani said she would like a policy enacted that prevents police officers from dropping off strays at the MADACC's facility between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. unless the animal's health is in question. "We have a pretty glaring financial problem," Sparapani said as she provided the backdrop of why a reduction in admitted hours is being sought. The MADACC is required to provide all admitted animals with a veterinary exam. The service, coupled with boarding, can result in mounting bills. By keeping strays in the local vicinity of where the animal is found, the likelihood of it being reunited promptly with its owner is increased. Police officers across all of the county's departments have access to the MADACC and can drop off strays during the off hours with their supplied key Several offi. cials asserted the daytime dropoffs might have taken place simply as a matter of convenience. ICC members expressed support for Sparapani's request. The item came in the form of a report, and no formal action was taken. Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett said he believed leaders within an offending community should be informed if there is the prevalence of strays being dropped off during active office hours. "If it's our guys, let us know," Barrett said. ■ In other business, the ICC hosted a brief discussion about the effects of Gov. Scott Walker's Act 14 legislation that limits the powers held by the Milwaukee County Board. County Executive Chris Abele and Board Chairwoman Marina Dimitrijevic, both of whom attended the ICC meeting, sparred over the ramifications of the legislation. Abele described it as "a positive for county government." But Dimitrijevic countered with sharp disagreement. "I don't think it's cut and dry," she said. "I think it's the exact opposite of streamlining."

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