For several years, I have been a volunteer for a local animal rescue in Rutherford County. This position has given me a tragic insight into the grim condition of animals in our community - a condition brought about by the gross mismanagement of the current animal control leadership, in addition to irresponsible pet ownership. More often than not, animals are brought to our rescue after being negligently turned away by the county animal control. The burden falls heavily on our rescue team, which neither has the space nor the financial resources to tend to all of these animals. This is a bleak contradiction given that our rescue organization depends entirely on donations, while the county animal control is allocated over $400,000 of taxpayers' money every year to carry out its duty. 

Frequent allegations surround the current team, including their failure to conduct proper investigations into claims of neglect and inability to take action even in evident cases. It's quite alarming that the life and death of our town's animal population hinges upon individuals like public health director Jason Masters, who along with his team, lack proper training, essential understanding of applicable laws, and the will to enforce strict animal abuse laws.

We can no longer sit by as animals in our care suffer due to bureaucratic incompetence. It is urgent that we replace Director Jason Masters and the current staff at Rutherford County Animal Control with competent management and staff - those trained and willing to uphold laws designed for the protection of animals.

It's time to bring about a change that ensures the safety and welfare of our animal population, a change that brings in leadership able to act, not just receive funds and ignore the cries for help. It's time we demand better for our animal friends. Please sign this petition to urge Rutherford County to replace the current animal control team with a competent one that genuinely cares for all critters.