505.03 ANIMAL WARDEN.

   (a)    Office Established. The part-time position of Animal Warden is established within the Department of Public Service. In the alternative, the Municipality may staff this position under a contract with an appropriate individual or entity.

   (b)    Appointment. The Animal Warden shall be appointed by the Mayor, subject to approval by a majority of the members elected to Council, to serve for a term of three (3) years. If the position is filled by contract, the individual or entity shall be selected by the Mayor, subject to the approval by a majority of the members elected to Council, to serve for the term of the contract.

   (c)    Compensation. The compensation of the Animal Warden shall be determined by the Council from time-to-time. If the position is filled by contract, the compensation shall be as determined by Council pursuant to the terms of the contract.

   (d)    Powers and Duties. It shall be the duty of the Animal Warden to enforce the provisions of this chapter and the laws of the State relative to the licensing, impounding, boarding and disposition of animals within the Municipality. The Animal Warden shall have complete police power to enforce the provisions of this chapter and the laws of the State and to make arrests for any violations thereof. In addition, any police officer or other officer of this Municipality, charged with the responsibility of enforcing the ordinances of this Municipality and the laws of the State shall have concurrent responsibility.

   (e)    If the Animal Warden is a part-time position in the Public Service Department, the Animal Warden shall be provided with a badge designating his office and authority and such other uniforms, vehicles and equipment necessary to carry out his or her duties. If the position is filled by contract, the Animal Warden shall be required to obtain his or her own badge and such other uniforms, vehicles and equipment necessary to carry out his or her duties.

(Ord. 2023-04. Passe 5-15-23.)