NEW ALBANY, Ind. — William Draper is set to become Floyd County's new animal control officer Jan. 1 under a two-year contract after the county's ties ended in June with the City of New Albany.
He comes with almost 10 years of experience in animal services and has major plans for the county.
"It's a difficult time for the animal control world, the shelters are full, there's no where to take them," Draper said.
He promised a bright future with the county in his hands and has plans to improve the quality of service.
"I'm hoping to keep up the normal animal control practices; in the next few months we're going to look at starting a TNR program for the residents of Floyd County," Draper said.
Under the updated ordinance, there will be an appointed board including a veterinarian, law enforcement, health department official & two members of the community.
Floyd County officials had no problem choosing Draper as the animal control officer.
"He's the only person that responded to our [request for proposal] but after we did some investigating, we talked to several municipalities that also use him, and we felt like he would be the perfect candidate," Jason Sharp, Floyd County commissioner in District 3, said.
The county will save anywhere between $50,000 and $70,000 annually over what they were paying New Albany for animal services.
In the past, there were several times residents requested animal control and no one showed up.
"They would have to call animal services from another county and come out and assist," Sharp said.
Both Sharp and Draper now feel animals will be serviced faster under this ordinance.
Now, he is calling on the public's help.
Draper said the goal is to keep animals out of shelters. He is looking for volunteers to become fosters and donation supplies of food and toys.
Anyone wishing to volunteer can contact 812-286-6013.
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