Greenstone appoints new interim enforcement officer
Greenstone’s new enforcement officer is pulling double-duty.
At their most recent meeting, Greenstone’s council passed a motion to appoint Allan Gordon as their new interim animal control officer and bylaw enforcement officer.
Gordon is taking on both roles following the retirement of Stephen Mykulak, who previously filled both roles in addition to serving as Greenstone’s director of protective and planning services.
Gordon will remain in the role until administration hires a manager of municipal law enforcement.
Chief administrative officer Mark Wright confirmed Gordon’s appointment is only temporary.
“There will be a report that’s coming back to council in July about that – this is to help bridge the gap. It is absolutely an interim option, it’s certainly not a longer-term option for either animal control or bylaw enforcement,” he said.
The news comes several months after the municipality partnered with Want a Pet? to perform patrols for stray dogs in Geraldton and Longlac, following formal complaints of dogs-at-large.
At the time, Mayor James McPherson and Wright pointed out how the great distance between Greenstone’s wards can be a challenge when it comes to responding to concerns before an animal is gone – even when the response is immediate.
Wright reminded dog owners to keep an eye on their pets and hoped better awareness would discourage owners from letting their dogs run at large.
“We encourage all dog owners to act responsibly and keep dogs within their control. Dogs that are not registered - and do not have dog tags - cannot be easily contacted to have their pets returned,” Wright said.
Residents are reminded to purchase a dog license from the municipal website or at the municipal office.
You may also use the municipal website to file a concern or formal complaint related to animal control.
Austin Campbell, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, SNnewswatch.com
