Shelter needs study before hiring leader

Saturday’s editorial about our Franklin County Dog Shelter was excellent, but neglected to underscore the need for an external quality-management review before hiring a new director. We have a very competent acting director and no reason to rush; better to use this opportunity to address the public safety and service needs of Ohio's fastest-growing county.

We cannot simply pass the buck, setting the stage for continued management problems.

I agree wholeheartedly that “this department is not a training ground for a novice.” In fact, with new department reporting lines, even the strongest leader will have a learning curve.

But as author of Franklin County's Fiscal Security Resolution, I believe rushing to hire a headhunter would be a disservice to our taxpayers and to dogs.

Readers should know this department is subsidized by millions of general-fund dollars.

We must review this decadesold structure. There are statutory conflicts, pressures from an unfunded state mandate and management issues. For years, we achieved great results through public/private community partnerships, which should be re-evaluated, too.

Taxpayers, animal lovers and all Franklin County families deserve an external quality review that explores several management models, and rates the most cost-effective means of caring for our dogs. PAULA BROOKS Franklin County commissioner

Columbus