Not-for-profit group taking over animal control in Stephenville area

Bay St. George Regional Animal Control Inc. got the nod from the Stephenville town council Thursday when it was approved that the Town of Stephenville become a participating member. Stephenville Crossing, St. George’s and Port au Port East are also partners.
Mike Campbell, town manager in Stephenville and the town’s representative on the newly formed committee, said meetings have already been held with participating towns and the organization is already operating under a terms of reference.
He said the other three councils are expected to sign off on it at their next meetings, if they haven’t already.
“To me it’s a great exercise in establishing a regional service," Campbell said. "It’s something I’m proud of."
He said the organization, whose board is made up of staff from the four municipalities, would like to see other communities in Bay St. George involved as the group is willing to expand.

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Campbell said an ad was posted for three weeks for an animal control officer and that competition closed Friday, so the hiring process will soon take place.

Coun. Tom Rose said what precipitated the formation of this not-for-profit company was that council was in violation of the Public Tender Act for municipal enforcement and animal control services.
He said as a result, council terminated a municipal enforcement contract on Dec. 5, 2016 at which time the RCMP took over the role and responsibility of municipal enforcement, which meant cost savings to the town.
Rose said council looked at four options for animal control and this one of setting up a corporation to oversee it was the one chosen. He’s satisfied they are now operating within the Public Tender Act.
“As council members we have to be cognizant that we’re not in conflict, we are following the Public Tender Act and spending taxpayers money wisely and with openness,” he said.

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Twitter: @WS_FrankGale