Animal Control Commission

The Animal Control Commission is a city advisory board established by the City of Quincy. It’s made up of seven members and includes City Council representatives, a licensed veterinarian, a police department representative, an animal welfare representative and community members. Members are appointed by the Mayor with City Council approval and serve staggered two-year terms. The commission meets as needed. 

The Animal Control Commission is responsible for:

• Reviewing and discussing animal control rules, ordinances and city policy related to pets and other animals — for example, rules about dangerous or vicious animals and animals running at large, which are part of local code and enforcement efforts.
• Advising the Mayor and City Council on animal control matters. This includes recommendations or evaluations of proposed updates to animal ordinances, community concerns or emerging issues that affect both people and animals.
• Bringing expertise to local discussions. Having a licensed veterinarian, an animal welfare representative and a police department representative ensures animal welfare, public safety and practical enforcement perspectives are part of city decision-making on animal issues.
• Helping monitor animal control operations. Although actual enforcement is done by the animal control officer under the police department, the commission helps ensure community priorities, welfare issues and concerns about animal policies are heard and addressed through public processes. Quincy's animal control officer (operating through the Quincy Police Department) handles day-to-day enforcement of animal laws, such as handling stray animals, enforcing leash laws, rabies and licensing requirements and public safety around animals. The commission does not do enforcement but helps guide and recommend policies that shape those services.

Initial appointments are for two-year terms which may be staggered by the Mayor with the advice and consent of the City Council. All terms shall be based on years that coincide with the fiscal year of the City of Quincy. The commission shall consist of seven members consisting of two City Council members, one licensed veterinarian, one representative from the Quincy Police Department, one representative of an animal welfare organization and two representatives being appointed from the community at large. Members may be reappointed to serve on the committee from time to time.