The following is the complete text of minutes of the CACC Board of Directors meetings for Jan-May 1996. The text noted by "XXX" has been "redacted" (deleted) by the CACC to prevent public disclosure claiming an exemption under the Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) section notated in brackets.
THE CENTER FOR ANIMAL CARE AND CONTROL, INC.
MINUTES
BOARD MEETING -1/30/96
Location:
Board Members and Officers present:
Margaret Hamburg, MD - Chair
John Doherty, Director
Walter Alicea Director
Rosemary Joyce, Director
Todd Davis, Director
Martin Kurtz Executive Director
Douglas Mansfield, Secretary
Absent:
Jane Bicks, DVM
The meeting was called to order at 10:10 a.m. The minutes of the previous Board meeting were approved at a 4-0 vote. There was a discussion regarding the last vacant Board position. The Board then went into executive session. The Board subsequently came out of executive session.
Executive Director's Report
Dr.
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Mr. Kurtz gave an explanation of the current spay/neuter program. Ms. Joyce
inquired whether follow up calls are made to individuals reminding them to have
their animal spayed or neutered. Mr. Kurtz informed her that a postcard is sent
out to everyone who adopts an animal. XXX
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Mr. Kurtz mentioned a donation of $10,000 to provide a new subway
advertisement. As a result of another donation and the free service of the
Carpenter's Union, a door is being constructed in the
Mr. Mansfield discussed a recent development in
The Executive Director reported on the Center's meeting with NSAL. Instead
of providing the Center with funds for the
Mr. Kurtz referred to various positive media coverage which the Center recently
had. A video of the most recent coverage regarding the rescue of exotic animals
in an abandoned apartment in
Election of New Chairperson
The Chair, Dr.
Commissioner Doherty referred to monthly report and suggested that indicators be done on a quarterly basis. Mr. Kurtz noted his concern to increase the adoption figures. Commissioner Hamburg expressed her support for the indicators and added that educational activities should be included.
Commissioner Doherty asked about the funding for the code violations in the
shelters. Mr. Mansfield informed him that the City allocated money in its
Capital Improvement budget for correcting the code violations. Mr. Kurtz added
that after improvement work is done at both
There being no other business before the meeting, the meeting was adjourned.
/s/ Douglas M. Mansfield
Secretary of the Corporation (Seal)
Adopted by 4-0 vote
on Feb. 29th, 1996
THE CENTER FOR ANIMAL CARE AND CONTROL, INC.
MINUTES
BOARD MEETING - 2/29/96
Location:
Board Members and Officers present:
John Doherty, Chairman
Walter Alicea, Director
Todd Davis, Director
Rosemary Joyce, Director
Martin Kurtz, Executive Director
Douglas Mansfield, Secretary/General Counsel
Margaret Hamburg, MD, Director (available by telephone)
Absent was:
Jane Bicks, DVM, Director
The meeting commenced at approximately 12:15 p.m. the Chairman, John Doherty expressed his thanks to Commissioner Hamburg, Martin Kurtz and staff of the Center for the work done during the past year.
The minutes of the last Board meeting were approved by a 4 0 vote. There was
a discussion regarding the applicants for the vacant Board positions and the
issue of obtaining approval from City Hall. XXX
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He also promised to contact Dr. Jane Bicks with regards to her status on the
Board. There was a discussion regarding the applicants interviewed at the last
Board meeting for the vacant Board positions.
Geoffrey Hochman explained the conflict between the budget year and the fiscal year. He noted that based on a recommendation by the Center's independent Auditors, Lutz and Carr, it was suggested that for reporting purposes the fiscal year be put on the same basis as the budget year. Mr. Hochman indicated that the Center's Auditors have proposed to do an eighteen-month audit next. The Controller noted that the Department of Health did not oppose this. Therefore, the next step would be to amend the By-laws accordingly.
Chairman Doherty asked if there were any discrepancies discovered by the Auditors. Mr. Hochman informed him that there were no problems except for a few issues to be confirmed with the DOH. Mr. Doherty added that once the audit report reflected that there were no problems, he would support the eighteen-month audit. Mr. Hochman noted that in addition to the independent Auditors, the Center is being audited by the DOH Auditors who audit the contract period.
Mr. Mansfield explained Resolution 96.5 which defines the authority of the Executive Director of the Center in relation to the execution of contracts and signing of legal documents. Resolution 96.5 was passed by a 4 0 vote.
Mr. Mansfield explained Proposed Resolution 96.6 regarding an Executive
Committee which would meet between Board meetings and which the Board would
delegate certain issues. A vote was postponed until Dr.
Mr. Mansfield discussed the proposed lease for the vacant lot in
Mr. Kurtz referred to a vacant building near the Brooklyn Shelter in which homeless individuals have been dwelling. This building is owned by the City and Mr. Kurtz noted that he had requested that the building be sealed. Mr. Kurtz also noted that he is investigating with the Department of Health having the building razed and turned into a dog run area. There was a fire in the building recently which could have been disastrous. Mr. Kurtz reported that the Department of General Services has promised to inspect the building.
There was a discussion regarding the proposed appointment of Todd Davis as Treasurer to replace Geoffrey Hochman who resigned his position as Treasurer.
Mr. Hochman discussed the financial year end statement for 1995. He noted that there could be changes since this final report has not yet been audited. Mr. Hochman added that the 1996 budget is higher than the 1995 budget mainly because of the provision for insurance and additional positions that were approved. Mr. Davis suggested that the 1997 budget be prepared based on monthly actuals for 1996. Mr. Hochman made note of the revenues, expenditures and donations for the year 1995 which will be in the final report for the Department of Health and copies will be available to Board members. Chairman Doherty noted his support for monthly budget reports.
There was a discussion regarding the grant proposal for 24 hour animal rescue services submitted by Mr. Davis to which suggestions and necessary changes were made.
Rosemary Joyce showed photographs of members of staff and pets taken at the Brooklyn Shelter by photographer Alan Kaplan. These photographs, with personal quotations by staff appearing in photographs, will be featured in upcoming advertisements to be placed on Sanitation trucks throughout the City.
Commissioner Hamburg called in at approximately 1:30 p.m. Chairman Doherty expressed his gratitude to Commissioner Hamburg for her work as the previous Chairperson for the Center. Mr. Mansfield explained to Commissioner Hamburg by telephone, what was set forth in the Proposed Resolutions discussed earlier.
Proposed Resolution 96.4 to change the Center's fiscal year from June 30, to December 31, was approved by a 5-0 vote.
Proposed Resolution 96.6 to set up an Executive Committee to deal with issues between Board meetings was approved by a 5-0 vote. The Executive Committee shall consist of John Doherty, Todd Davis and Rosemary Joyce.
Permission for the Center to enter into a lease for the
Proposed Resolution to appoint Todd Davis as Treasurer was approved by a 5-0 vote.
Ms. Joyce discussed the work done by Brian Kilcommons, one of
There was a discussion regarding the establishment of an in-house
spay/neuter clinic. Mr. Kurtz reported on the proposal for the clinic in
Ms. Joyce suggested that the Center invites personnel from the Herro's
Spay/Neuter Clinic in
The Executive Director spoke about the humane and animal control
organizations he met while attending the conference in
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It was noted that there would not necessarily be an increase in the Center's budget for capital improvement based on the report.
In response to a question from Commissioner Doherty regarding the Chameleon computer system, Mr. Kurtz reported that City officials visited the shelter recently with the diagrams for the wiring. This system should be installed in another 6 months.
Mr. Mansfield addressed the issue of City funding in relation to the line
item budget. He discussed a block grant budget and explained the advantages of
this type of budget. It was agreed that the Center should commence work on
this. Chairman Doherty asked about the capital improvement work and leases to
be renewed. Mr. Kurtz stated that capital improvements are being handled by the
Department of General Services who have hired Urbhan Associates. He added that
there was more work to be done on the
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XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX[872g] Chairman Doherty stressed the need for
swing space. He suggested that Urban Associates include this in their plan so
that the request could be made.
Mr. Kurtz reported that the leases for the Queens and the
Chairman Doherty referred to some of the goals the Board would like to
accomplish such as improving the adoption rate, compliance with Intro. 321 and
a 24~hour animal rescue service. Mr. Kurtz announced that some efforts have
been made to improve the adoption rate. A new Adoption Coordinator was hired
recently for the Manhattan Shelter; every other Sunday many animals are adopted
in Staten Island through PETCO, a pet store; adoptable animals will be
displayed in a pet store in
There was a discussion regarding the spay/neuter policy.
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Mr. Kurtz informed the meeting that the Center is in the process of recruiting a Chief Veterinarian and a Veterinarian for the Manhattan Shelter.
There being no other business before the meeting, the meeting was adjourned.
/s/ Douglas M. Mansfield
Secretary of the Corporation (Seal)
Adopted by 4-0 vote
on April 18, 1996
THE CENTER FOR ANIMAL CARE AND CONTROL, INC.
MINUTES
BOARD MEETING - 4/18/96 - 11:00
a.m.
Location:
Board Members and Officers present:
John Doherty, Chairman
Rosemary Joyce, Director
Margaret Hamburg, MD, Director
Martin Kurtz. Executive Director
Douglas Mansfield, Secretary/General Counsel
Todd Davis, Director (available by telephone)
Absent:
Yolanda Jimenez
The meeting commenced at 11:00 a.m. The minutes of the last Board meeting were approved by a 4-0 vote with Mr. Davis' vote by telephone.
Executive Director's Report
Mr. Kurtz referred to the first quarter of 1995 in comparison to the same
period of 1996 and noted that there has been a significant increase in the
number of animals rescued. He also stated that there has been an increase in
the number of animals received at the shelters when the trend nationally is
fewer animals received at shelters. This situation perhaps would change when
the spay/neuter legislation is passed in
Mr Kurtz announced the appointment of a new Chief Veterinarian, Dr. Susan Kopp who will begin working for the Center on April 22, 1996.
Independent Auditors Report
Mr. Hochman discussed the report by the Independent Auditors, Lutz and Carr
for the fiscal year which ended June 30, 1995. He explained that the statements
were prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Financial Accounting
Standards Board, and some phrases have been replaced by new terms. The
Controller referred to the total expenditures for the reporting period and
noted that approximately 81% was spent on day to day program services for the
shelters. There was a discussion regarding employee benefits. It was noted that
more effort will be put toward fund raising activities. Commissioner Hamburg
stated that contributions received for the last six months were higher than the
first six months of the year. The next report will be an eighteen-month report
which will be up to December 31, 1996. Continuing his presentation, Mr. Hochman
referred to the increase in revenue for the first quarter of 1996. He noted the
significant increase in revenue from the Manhattan Shelter and the Staten
Island Pet Receiving and
Dr.
Mr. Mansfield raised the issue of wage re-opener negotiations scheduled for November 1996. He suggested that the Center and the DOH commence discussion in preparation for negotiation with the union. He also added that City employees received a wage increase recently and if some provision is not made, Center employees may not receive a wage increase for a long time. A decision was made to contact the DOH with regards to utilizing whatever funds are remaining from the 1995 budget.
Dr.
Mr. Hochman explained the guidelines as set forth in the Internal Control Manual. No vote was taken on the Internal Control Manual as Todd Davis did not have the opportunity to review it.
Ms. Joyce brought the meeting up to date on the ads to be placed on
sanitation trucks. She also mentioned that Brian Kilcommons informed her of a
new idea he has for CACC advertising. Ms. Joyce discussed the Heinz promotion
featuring Homeless Homer scheduled for June '96. Morris the Cat will be joining
Homeless Homer for this event and it is anticipated that the Center would
benefit financially from this venture. For October 1996, the Manhattan Art and
During the entire month of October whenever a purchase is made the customer
may select one of the participating animal charities who will in turn receive
5% of the cost of the item Ms. Joyce suggested that an announcement regarding
this project be placed in the newsletter It was agreed that the Center will be
a participant. Continuing, Ms. Joyce noted an event planned by Brian Kilcommons
for the month of November to introduce his new book. Ms. Joyce commented on the
Manhattan Doggie Door and indicated that similar work will be required in the
Mr Kurtz stated that the Village Voice will be featuring an article on the Center. He met with the reporter and is confident that the Center could benefit from this article. Mr. Hochman mentioned the advertisements for the upcoming Adoptathon Weekend. Mr. Mansfield discussed the Special Patrolman issue.
Mr. Davis called in and Chairman Doherty briefed him on the meeting. Mr.
Kurtz informed the members of his upcoming meeting with the ASPCA to discuss
the
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Mr. Mansfield reported on the parking lot in
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Mr. Mansfield explained the block grant idea. Dr.
Mr. Mansfield referred to the candidates who were interviewed for the vacant Board positions and who are still awaiting a response from the Board, and suggested that a letter be sent to each individual notifying them that their application is still being considered. Mr. Mansfield also referred to an article, which was forwarded to all Board Members, from the HSUS shelter magazine which states that having a veterinarian serve as Board Member is a conflict of interest.
Chairman Doherty cited adoptions and the fact that some facilities adopt more than others Mr. Kurtz attributed this to the operating hours and Mr. Hochman stated that with adequate funding, the Center could extend the operating hours of the other facilities which would result in increased adoption.
There was a discussion regarding the Herro's presentation scheduled for April 29, 1996 and the importance of having animals spayed or neutered. Mr. Mansfield explained why moneys received through shelter activities cannot go toward a spay/neuter clinic.
There being no other business before the meeting, the meeting was adjourned.
/s/ Douglas M. Mansfield
Secretary of the Corporation (Seal)
Adopted by 4-0, 1 abstain vote
on May 29, 1996
THE CENTER FOR ANIMAL CARE AND CONTROL, INC.
MINUTES
BOARD MEETING - 5/29/96 - 1:00
p.m.
Location:
Board Members and Officers present:
John Doherty, Chairman
Rosemary Joyce, Director
Yolanda Jimenez, Director
Todd Davis, Director (available by telephone)
Margaret Hamburg, MD, Director(available by telephone)
Martin Kurtz, Executive Director
Douglas Mansfield, Secretary/General Counsel
The meeting commenced at approximately 1:30 p.m.
The Executive Director discussed the animal statistics for the first quarter
of 1996 and noted the increase in adoptions. Commissioner Doherty expressed his
concern regarding the budget cuts. Mr. Kurtz stated that he received a letter
from the DOH informing him that the budget will be reduced by $202,000. and
that the CACC should absorb this amount. He stressed the fact that the budget
cut was never discussed with the CACC. Mr. Mansfield noted that he communicated
with the DOH's General Counsel on this matter in relation to the contract. He
added that the CACC should be allowed to cut services if there is a budget cut.
Mr. Mansfield suggested that either the Queens Pet Receiving Facility or the
Bronx Pet Receiving Facility be closed. He informed the meeting that the DOH
suggested an increase in fees after being told that the CACC could not absorb
the amount in question unless services are cut. Mr. Kurtz noted that the adoption
fee should not be increased because it is higher than any other animal shelter
in
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Commissioner Doherty asked about the capital improvement work for the shelters. Mr. Kurtz informed him that the Department of General Services is responsible for this program The chairman expressed his concern about having repair work done so that the CACC would not be subject to more criticism in this area.
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The minutes of the previous meeting were adopted by a 3-0 vote. Director Jimenez abstained.
Mr. Mansfield explained the amendments to the Certificate of Incorporation. This amendment, Resolution 96.7, was passed by a unanimous vote of 5-0 including all 3 ex-officio members.
Mr. Kurtz announced that XXXXXXXXXXXXX promised a donation of $10,000.00 to the CACC which will be used toward increasing the hours at the Brooklyn facility. It was noted that the request for the block grant was denied. Mr. Mansfield informed the members of the reason that the DOH gave for the denial. Commissioner Doherty asked about the spay/neuter clinic. Ms. Joyce noted that the cost to set up a clinic in Manhattan would be about $75,000. A discussion followed regarding the operation of such a clinic.
Todd Davis was contacted via telephone. He gave his approval of the minutes,
the Internal Control Manual, the Application to the Department of Social
Services to solicit donations at street fairs and the Amendment to the
Certificate of Incorporation. XXXXXX
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reduction for the remainder of 1996 with the DOH General Counsel. Commissioner
Doherty expressed his support of Mr. Mansfield's idea of cutting services in
either the Bronx or Queens to help absorb this budget cut. Ms. Joyce suggested
cutting services in Queens. Commissioner Doherty stated that cutting services
is in accordance with what the City agencies have been required to do in a
budget cut. He suggested looking at the adoption figures for both locations.
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[Highlighted text in this paragraph was originally redacted claiming an
872g exemption, and was reinstated on appeal] Dr. Hamburg called in at
about 2:00 p.m. She approved the Internal Control Manual and the Amendment to
the Certificate of Incorporation. Commissioner Doherty discussed the current
budget issues. XXXXXXXX
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had discussions with DOH officials regarding revenues and suggested a fee
increase. He also noted that the DOH is negotiating directly with the ASPCA to
collect rent for use of the Brooklyn clinic. Commissioner Doherty spoke
about the capital improvement for the shelters and promised to contact the
Department of General Services on this matter. He added that if repair work is
done prior to a review of the CACC's operation by a consultant, there would be
less criticism.
There was a discussion regarding the proposed budget cut. XXXXXX
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XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX[872g] He stressed the importance of the CACC setting up a
spay/neuter clinic in the shelter. Commissioner Doherty asked about the
personnel and the time period required to launch this clinic. Mr. Mansfield
stated that two of the CACC's veterinarians have indicated their willingness to
do more surgical work, therefore there should be no problem to commence
spay/neuter operations immediately after the premises is vacated. It was
decided that the CACC's General Counsel would communicate with the DOH's legal
office on the rent issue.
There being no other business before the meeting-the meeting was adjourned.
/s/ Douglas M. Mansfield
Secretary of the Corporation (Seal)
Adopted by 4-0 vote
on July 31, 1996