Board proclaims September 2026 National Service Dog Month; some public commentators criticize ceremonial proclamations

The Board of Supervisors proclaimed September 2026 as National Service Dog Month and commended Canine Companions for 50 years of service; handlers and dogs joined the dais for a ceremonial presentation.

Colleen Shannon, a handler onsite, thanked Supervisor Mueller and the board for recognizing service dog teams and described how trained dogs enable independence for people with disabilities. "These expertly trained service dogs truly change lives," a handler said.

During the public‑comment period several speakers expressed opposition to using county meeting time for proclamations, urging the board to focus on budget and other binding policy matters. Michelle Stevens urged the board to vote down the proclamation and said the county should spend time on substantive items; other commenters reiterated concerns about family‑court cases and county priorities.

Despite the objections, the board moved and approved the proclamation unanimously and posed for photos with the dogs in the lobby.