On January 8th, KMMO Radio had the privilege of sitting down with Mayor Lutterbie for an exclusive interview.
Among the topics discussed was the ongoing concern surrounding the Saline Animal League situation.
The conversation delved into the complexities of this pressing issue, shedding light on potential resolutions and community-driven initiatives.
The City of Marshall has ended the Saline Animal League’s management of the Marshall Animal Shelter. There was an earlier plan to terminate their agreement in 60 days from October 1, 2023, but they extended it informally until January 31, 2024, while negotiating a new deal. The shelter was not in compliance with the state. The city of Marshall felt it was best to avoid legal issues with the state, and transform the shelter into a pound. The shelter was found to be operating without a required license from Missouri’s Department of Agriculture, which was revoked due to actions taken by the Saline Animal League representatives without informing the City.
The city then decided to cut ties, officially ending the Saline Animal League’s authority over the shelter on January 5, 2024. After this notice, the Saline Animal League couldn’t access the shelter without a city representative present, and they cannot use the shelter’s name or the city’s in a way that might mislead the public.
The city agreed to help the Saline Animal League retrieve their belongings from the shelter by January 31, 2024, as long as city representatives oversee the process.
Visit our website for the legal proper documentation that was provided by the City of Marshall
In the aftermath of the situation, Mayor Lutterbie is deeply troubled and expresses profound regret over the unfortunate events that unfolded. He feels a deep sense of sorrow, especially concerning the hurried relocation of the animals from the shelter. The mayor extends heartfelt condolences for any distress caused during this transition.
During the transition, the Marshall Police Department was present to support and assist in escorting the shelter employees. They were given a brief window of five minutes to retrieve their personal belongings, ensuring a smooth process without an immediate removal of all the animals at once. The focus was on personal belongings rather than the animals’ swift relocation.
Mayor Lutterbie would also like to refute the topic of this becoming a kill shelter operation. The Mayor states that this is not at all what the city planned to do. These animals will continued to be taken care of and properly maintained, with the same ideals that the Saline Animal League practiced.
It’s important to note that these actions were not conducted as part of official city council business. The majority of city council members were unaware of these developments.
You can view the official City statement by clicking the link below.
The city released an additional statement regarding the SAL’s operation and the removal from the animal shelter. You can view that statement here: January-8-2024-For-Immediate-Release.