The Pleasants County Commission has recently threatened to withhold a critical $37,500 in funding from the Pleasants County Humane Society (PCHS), jeopardizing their ability to effectively support animal welfare in our community. The condition imposed is that all board members must reside in the county, a change that would immediately displace four current members and restrict future board recruitment solely to our small community. This restriction threatens to isolate PCHS from passionate animal welfare advocates in neighboring areas. Historically, when board membership was limited to within Pleasants County, filling seats was a challenging task that severely impacted the operations of the Humane Society. The breadth and diversity of the board have been instrumental in driving forward their mission to provide care, shelter, and advocacy for animals, preventing overpopulation, and ensuring public safety through responsible pet ownership. The County Commission has justified this potential funding cut by claiming it reflects taxpayer wishes, but it's crucial to realize the broader perspective of our community. The current board of the PCHS has tirelessly championed the cause of animal welfare, and limiting membership jeopardizes not only the organization but also the community's stand on humane treatment of animals. Your support is vital. By signing this petition, you express your backing for a diverse and inclusive board that draws upon regional support to provide the best care and advocacy for our animals. Let's show the Pleasants County Commission that we, the residents of Saint Marys and surrounding areas, believe in maintaining the present structure of the PCHS board. Let our collective voice confirm our commitment to an inclusive body that embraces collective expertise for the betterment of our beloved community animals. Please sign this petition to ensure that the Pleasants County Humane Society continues to operate with the comprehensive and inclusive support it has always had. Together, we can safeguard the future of humane animal treatment in Pleasants County and beyond. Your signature matters.