The Animal Services Advisory Board (ASAB) is an advisory body established to provide thoughtful advice and recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners on policy and operational questions related to animal services and welfare. The ASAB accepts referrals from the Board or County Administration, reviews policies/procedures, develops community coordination proposals, assists with public education on responsible pet ownership, and makes recommendations on funding and operations for the County's animal services functions. It operates in an advisory capacity only and has no self-assigning authority or decision-making power.

Key Duties:

· Accept and act on animal-related questions/issues referred by the Board.

· Recommend improvements to County policies, procedures, and ordinances related to animal services/welfare.

· Develop proposals to coordinate efforts among private animal-related groups and the County.

· Assist with development of educational materials/programs on responsible pet ownership, volunteering, and fostering.

· Recommend future funding, resources, and operational options for animal control services.

· Perform other duties as directed by the Board.

The ASAB consists of 11 members appointed by the Board of County Commissioners, representing diverse geographical areas and segments of the population concerned with animal control and welfare. Categories include:

• 3 citizens representing non-profit organizations/agencies/voluntary associations focused on care, handling, or rescue of domestic animals (no more than one per organization).
• 1 citizen with expertise in business development, finance, and/or operations.
• 1 Florida-licensed veterinarian actively practicing (not employed/contracted by Manatee County).
• 1 citizen who adopted an animal from the County within the prior 2 years.
• 5 citizens who volunteered at least 80 hours for the County's animal services/welfare division or a private rescue agency within the prior 2 years (verified).

Terms: 4-year terms (one term limit; successive terms at Board discretion). Members may be removed at the Board's discretion. Absences or loss of qualifying status may result in deemed resignation.