Wanted: Town Animal Control Officer applicants

September 11, 2020 | Waterbury Roundabout

The Town of Waterbury is seeking a person or persons interested in serving as Animal Control Officer (ACO) for the Town of Waterbury.  ACOs are responsible for the enforcement of the Animal Control Ordinance of the Town of Waterbury.  Specifically, it is expected that the ACOs will respond to and help resolve citizen complaints concerning the behavior of dogs and their owners, will enforce the “leash law” contained in the ordinance, and will assist with ensuring dogs are legally licensed.

The ACOs shall be appointed and shall be responsible to the Select Board, but will be supervised, generally, by the Municipal Manager.  In addition, the ACOs will work with the Town Clerk with regard to licensing and may work with the Town Health Officer(s) in the case of dog biting incidents.

The successful candidate will have a general appreciation and respect for animals and their owners but will understand their role in keeping people and animals safe through the enforcement of the ordinance.  The select board desires to employ ACOs who can work with the public to foster an appreciation for the Animal Control Ordinance as a tool for enhancing public safety and the enjoyment of animals and one who can mediate conflicts that sometimes arise between the general public and owners and their dogs.

The Select Board seeks to compensate fairly those appointed to the position of ACO.  It is expected that a monthly stipend of $450 will be paid to the ACO to compensate for telephone calls received and made and for general interactions with the public concerning dogs.  In addition, an hourly rate of $17.00 will be paid when the ACO goes out to handle a call.  Mileage will be reimbursed at the IRS non-taxable rate.  It is anticipated the select board will interview candidates at the meeting scheduled for October 5, 2020.

Interested persons should apply by Thursday, October 1, 2020, by sending a letter of interest by U.S. Mail or e-mail to:

William Shepeluk, Municipal Manager / Town of Waterbury / 28 North Main Street, Suite 1 / Waterbury, VT 05676

Or to wshepeluk@waterburyvt.com.