ABOUT THE POSITION
Under the limited direction of the Assistant Director of Neighborhood Enhancement, the Animal Services Manager provides leadership in establishing and implementing policy for animal services and animal welfare and care activities of the City. This position provides leadership and direction to employees, partner agencies, and volunteers. The incumbent will supervise and coordinate all activities and work at the San Marcos Regional Animal Shelter including field operations, shelter operations, and veterinary care. The Animal Services Manager maintains and promotes contact with other City departments, shelter volunteers, animal welfare and care organizations, the veterinarian community, community organizations, civic groups, business leaders, Texas State University, and the general public.

ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT

Animal Services is one of five divisions within the Department of Neighborhood Enhancement. The division has a 2019/2020 approved budget of $1.7 million and has 23 budgeted positions. The San Marcos Regional Animal Shelter (SMRAS) located at 750 River Road provides for animal housing, veterinary care, and a home base for the Animal Protection Officers (APOs). The facility was built in 2001 with 7,700 square feet and expanded in 2007 with an additional 4,995 square feet. The current capacity is 105 dog kennels and 87 cat cages. In addition to being an open intake facility for all domestic animals and wildlife impounded by APOs in San Marcos, SMRAS receives domestic animals from the City of Kyle, the City of Buda, and Hays County (animals impounded by APOs working for the Hays County Sheriff’s Office). Total annual animal intake is approximately 5,000. Citizens from all three cities and residents within unincorporated Hays County may bring animals to SMRAS for surrender (owner-relinquished and found animals).

Major initiatives and priorities for the near and long (5 years-plus) term include:
Hire a leading-edge leader for Animal Services
Expand staff by hiring a full-time adoption position (newly funded) and integrate volunteers
 Purchase and “go live” with new, state-of-the-industry animal services software
Write and implement Action Plans for each of the 12 Objectives in the 5-Year Pawsitive Outcomes
Implementation Plan to attain and sustain a 90% live outcome rate
Be a change agent in moving the culture of the Animal Services Division to one of lifesaving and high-
performance customer and animal care
 Build relationships with key partners to create, develop, and enhance efforts and outcomes