San Antonio's Animal Care Services (ACS) department is taking action following a city audit that revealed significant shortcomings in its oversight of rescue partners. The audit highlighted ACS's failures in monitoring the outcomes for animals, particularly with regard to spaying and neutering, and ensuring that rescue facilities have adequate inspection and insurance coverage. This comes at a time when the department is leaning increasingly on these rescue organizations to help reduce euthanasia rates.
The city audit, a nearly 15-page document, outlined a range of issues, as reported by FOX San Antonio. Among the findings were lapses in required documentation and proof of animal sterilizations from rescue groups. ACS Director Shannon Sims, who is slated to retire later this year, has agreed that the department "needs to be better at it every day." According to audits, ACS has updated its contracts and added a contract coordinator to ensure compliance. The department has until May 1 to implement a "corrective action plan."
District Nine Councilman John Courage expressed his concerns, saying, "I hope all the committee members have had a chance to review the audit reports I have." The City Council's Audit Committee has already given its approval, and Sims has signed off on the audit document. As San Antonio Report noted, ACS is expected to provide monthly status updates on the rescue partners' adherence to contract stipulations.
Despite receiving a 26% budget increase for 2024, ACS has been criticized for not adequately utilizing additional funds to ensure animal welfare. The city previously paid between $75 and $125 per animal to rescue partners, but now, a flat rate of $200 per animal is paid as of the 2024 fiscal year. Councilwoman Phyllis Viagran, chair of the audit committee, highlighted the need for increased accountability, saying, "We really need more accountability." However, the audit raises further questions about organizations such as K9s for Warriors, who, despite significant financial support, have not met performance goals.
ACS's COO Bethany Colonnese acknowledged the challenge of balancing thorough vetting of rescue groups while facilitating the adoption process. While there have been no reports of ACS animals ending up in situations like those at a defunct Arkansas nonprofit, the audit has shed light on systemic issues that demand immediate attention. Looking ahead, the department is committed to making substantial improvements to meet the city's expectations of public safety and animal welfare.
