HomeMy WebLinkAboutStaffing Concerns_ San Bernardino City Animal Shelter_Public CommentFrom:Masoud Rahimian
To:PublicComments
Subject:Staffing Concerns: San Bernardino City Animal Shelter
Date:Tuesday, September 30, 2025 7:54:41 PM
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I have been a volunteer at the shelter for over 2 years now and this shelter has always been underfunded
and understaffed, yet I have never seen the staffing issue as bad as it is now.
The only thing the shelter has going for it right now is that it has passionate, dedicated employees who go
above and beyond every day. The existing staff are all overworked and overwhelmed and I am
concerned for all of them. I am afraid any staff in this situation will not last long due to the pressure that is
created from these circumstances. I have personally witnessed how understaffing has led to dangerous
situations to both animals and staff. We are adding over 100 additional kennels and I am not sure how the
shelter, with its current staffing levels, will be able to mange this increase.
I have also witnessed long lines at the front office with people waiting over 45 minutes to get help and
some interested adopters simply just walk out.
The ultimate goal is to have every dog adopted and cared for instead of euthanized, and when adopters
leave because the staffing issue causes such long delays, then we are failing in this goal.
There are many issues I could bring up that need to be addressed, yet the primary thing needed that
would address almost all issues is to have adequate staffing.
I understand each and every one of the City Council Members ,and the Mayor, carry a special power to
make a difference in our shelter and I hope you would consider providing a more adequate number of
employees to protect the staff and the animals and ultimately the Community.
I appreciate your time and consideration in this matter and look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Masoud Rahimian