By Maria Consuelo Barrero
Subject: Restructure Polk County Animal Control
Dear Commissioners,
I am asking you to please remove Animal Control from the Sheriff’s Office and create a civilian-led Department of Animal Services under the County Manager.
Other counties in Florida (Palm Beach, Hillsborough, Orange) have successfully made this change. Polk County deserves the same:
• More transparency and accountability
• A volunteer program restored and protected
• Humane solutions like TNVR are supported, not punished
• Updated ordinances for breeder licensing and animal welfare
This is about saving lives, building trust with the community, and using taxpayer dollars wisely. Please give Polk County a system that reflects compassion, responsibility, and modern standards.
Thank you for your time and leadership.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
⸻
Commissioner emails:
Becky Troutman – [email protected]
Rick Wilson – [email protected]
Bill Braswell – [email protected]
Martha Santiago – [email protected]
Michael [email protected]