The following is a press release from the Clinton County Humane Society following Monday night’s executive session meeting held at the Clinton County Fairgrounds:
After much review, the Humane Society of Clinton County Board of Directors (Board) passed a motion to terminate Mr. Jim Tate from his position of Director of the Humane Society of Clinton County (Humane Society). Upon relaying this decision to Mr. Tate on Friday, August 17, the remaining staff chose to leave as well, including our animal control officer, thus voluntarily terminating their employment. With the lack of staff remaining, the Board was left with no other choice but to temporarily suspend public access to the facility until such a time staff can be employed to manage and clean the Humane Society.
At its Board meeting on the evening of August 20, the Board appointed Mr. Ben Pfeffer as interim director to manage the daily operations of the Humane Society until a full director can be properly interviewed, vetted and retained. Mr. Pfeffer is a community leader, businessman and former Humane Society Board member. An action plan is in place for the complete care of all animals, procedures and maintenance of building and grounds.
There have been many incorrect statements and false allegations made on social media in reference to several issues at the Humane Society. One allegation in particular stated that the Board has plans of mass euthanasia to the animals at the facility. Be advised that there is no plans by the Board for such action and animals at the facility will continue to be well cared for and maintained.
Social media has also incorrectly stated that the Humane Society and Board are under the control of either the City of Frankfort and/or the Clinton County Commissioners. The Humane Society does receive funding from these two governmental entities, but the Board is in complete control of the Humane Society and no other authority controls the Board or the management of the Humane Society. Furthermore, the Humane Society and the Board are not subject to the Indiana Open Door Law. The Humane Society receives far less that the $200,000.00 threshold in taxpayer monies be subject to the Open Door Law and Access to Public Records.
The Board will advise when the Humane Society will be re-opened to the public. Along with Mr. Pfeffer, the Board’s top priority has been and will continue to be what is in the best interest of the animals. The public’s patience and continued support is greatly appreciated as the Board continues to work toward their constant goal to improve the Humane Society for the animals and citizens of Clinton County.
The letter was signed by Nancy Elsea, President Board of Directors, Humane Society of Clinton County; and Ben Pfeffer, Interim Director Humane Society of Clinton County.