To the El Paso Mayor and Members of the El Paso City Council:

We, the undersigned residents and supporters of the City of El Paso, respectfully petition the Mayor, City Council, and City Manager to ensure that the selection and appointment of the next Director of Animal Services fully complies with the official qualifications and requirements established by the City of El Paso.

According to the City of El Paso Human Resources Department, the Director of Animal Services must possess:

Bachelor’s degree in business, management, or public administration
Relevant zoology or animal care/control field
CAWA certification within one year of appointment
Comprehensive knowledge of state, county, and city laws, ordinances and regulations concerning animal welfare and disease control
Knowledge and ability to comply with TDSHS animal shelter requirements
Experience in “best practices” in delivery of animal care and welfare
Comprehensive knowledge of animal welfare and disease control
Knowledge of animal behavior, anatomy, hygiene, nutrition, and first aid for animals.
It has come to the attention of the community that this critical leadership position may be filled through political appointment rather than through a transparent, merit-based selection process. Such action would disregard the City’s own professional requirements, potentially compromise the welfare of animals, and diminish public trust in the City’s leadership.

Therefore, we the undersigned respectfully call upon the City of El Paso to:

Conduct a transparent, competitive, and public hiring process;

Require that all candidates meet or exceed the official qualifications;

Appoint a director with proven experience, professionalism, and dedication to animal welfare.
The citizens, taxpayers, and animals of El Paso deserve competent, qualified, and ethical leadership in this vital role. We urge the Mayor and City Council to ensure accountability, transparency, and professionalism in the selection of the next Director of Animal Services.