Orange County Animal Services Advisory Board (ASAB) Frequently Asked Questions

 Purpose of this FAQ page: To inform the public about the ASAB, protocol and process of meetings, and communication with the ASAB.

What is the ASAB?

The ASAB is a volunteer, Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) appointed board that advises the BOCC on issues regarding animals and animal services in Orange County.

What does the ASAB do?

The ASAB hears matters of concern regarding animal issues from Orange County residents and advises the BOCC on matters of concern regarding animal issues and animal services in Orange County. The ASAB works with the Animal Services Director (or designee) on various policy concerns and issues regarding County animal services. The Board also hears Potentially Dangerous Dog Declaration appeals.

 What types of concerns will the ASAB consider?

The ASAB considers various animal concerns in Orange County. In the past, the ASAB has considered animal tethering, animal nuisance noise, livestock and public safety issues, spay/neuter, feral and free roaming cats, keeping of exotics and wild animals, cat sheltering issues, etc. 

What types of concerns will the ASAB not consider?

Specific decisions or actions by staff in the different operational areas (as opposed to general policies and guidelines) or personnel matters are not the subject of ASAB oversight. These matters should be referred to the Animal Services Director. The one exception is the potentially dangerous dog appeal process mentioned above.

If I have a concern, idea, or feedback about an animal-related issue in Orange County, whom should I contact?

You may contact Animal Services Director or the ASAB Chair.

Can I just show up and speak at an ASAB monthly meeting?

Yes. There are two separate sheets for sign-up. One is “Public comments for items on the agenda” and the other is “Public comments for items not on the agenda”.

How long will I have to speak?

The ASAB follows the same format for public input as the Orange County Board of Commissioners. A 3-minute limit is set for all public comments. If you feel that you cannot convey your thoughts in the 3-minute limit, you may present your ideas or concerns in writing to the Board. It is helpful to keep your comments short and to the point.

 May I bring printed material or handouts? 

You are also welcome to bring printed material or handouts that may support your comments for the ASAB, however, do not expect ASAB members to read them “on the spot”. You are asked to provide the printed materials or handouts to the ASAB Secretary.

When will the ASAB consider my idea or concern?

As a general rule, only those items appearing on the agenda will be discussed or voted on at that meeting. However, the ASAB may choose to discuss your idea or concern, time permitting, so long as no action is taken until a subsequent meeting. Following the meeting at which you have spoken, The ASAB Chair, Vice Chair, and the Animal Services Director will discuss your concern and determine if the ASAB should consider this as an agenda item at a future meeting. If you request action from the ASAB, either the ASAB Chair or the Animal Services Director will contact you with the decision and with a date if this will be a future agenda item. Please keep in mind that not all ideas and/or concerns brought to the ASAB result in an action or vote from the ASAB.

What happens when my idea or concern is listed as an agenda item? 

The Animal Services Director will contact you with the date and time of the meeting at which the item will be considered. You may be invited to speak and possibly have a question and answer period with the ASAB members for a designated period of time. You will then be asked to allow the ASAB to discuss what has been presented without interruption. In some cases a subcommittee may be formed to look into the issue further and you would be welcome to provide input to that subcommittee as well.

Where can I go to find more information about Orange County Animal Services and the ASAB?

Please go to https://www.orangecountync.gov/1233/Advisory-Board-Hearing-Panel-Pool for more information, including contact information.