Harnett County places shelter director on leave after state notice; board orders monthly compliance reports

A county official identified as Mr. Price told the Harnett County Board of Commissioners on June 9 that the county’s animal shelter received a notice of violation on May 29 and that staff had moved quickly to correct immediate deficiencies.

Mr. Price said staff have completed fixes such as cleaning vents, sealing concrete cracks and issuing work orders for kennel surfaces, and that internal‑review interviews and a re‑certification training with Wake County Animal Services (led by Dr. Federico) are scheduled. "This is of utmost importance and priority," Mr. Price said, adding that the county will "gather all the facts" before recommending changes to policy and operations.

The county announced that, "as of yesterday, June 8," the animal shelter director has been placed on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the internal review, and that the general services director will assume oversight of the shelter in the interim. Mr. Price said the animals’ care — feeding, medication and adoptions — will continue during the review.

Barry, a shelter staff member who outlined adoption and community programs, described partnerships with retailers and rescues, a foster‑to‑adopt program, and regular adoption events. He highlighted collaboration with North Carolina State University veterinary programs for spay/neuter services and said the shelter is active on social media to promote adoptions.

During public comment and board discussion, several speakers urged more proactive policies — including stronger spay/neuter outreach and leash‑law options — to reduce euthanasia. One commissioner proposed a one‑business‑day notification requirement: when state regulators issue a notice, the county manager should be alerted within one business day so commissioners are informed promptly.

The board accepted a request from shelter staff that it receive monthly written reports on compliance status and corrective actions. Commissioners also discussed staffing needs; staff later provided a budget estimate for two additional animal care technician positions ($120,422 total) to meet increased workload at the shelter.

Next steps: staff will complete the internal review, report findings to the board, and implement required corrective actions. The re‑certification training for shelter staff is scheduled for June 15.