Agenda (PDF)

Animal Welfare Advisory Committee · 2026-07-28 · agenda

[3400 NE 53rd Avenue, Gainesville, Florida 32609 (current ACAR facility); former University of Florida Swine Unit (proposed new shelter location)] This document details multiple meetings of the Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (AWAC) in early 2026, focusing on operational issues, staffing, and an independent investigation into a whistleblower complaint. Key discussions included the search for a new Animal Resources Director and Shelter Veterinarian, the proposed relocation of the shelter to the former University of Florida Swine Unit, and the review of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). A significant portion of the document is dedicated to the findings of an independent investigation by Stephanie Marchman of GrayRobinson, P.A., regarding a complaint filed by Anthony Friedell (believed to be authored by Sarah Gilley). The investigation found most allegations of substandard conditions and mismanagement to be unsubstantiated, attributing many issues to prior management. However, it did substantiate that Gina Peebles, the Acting Director, referred to certain members of the public as "lynching ladies" in a metaphorical sense due to relentless attacks, recommending this be addressed. The investigation also confirmed ACAR had been without a permanent director since August 2025 and an in-house veterinarian between August 2025 and May 2026. The committee passed a motion recommending ACAR discontinue partnerships with Doug Eddins and his affiliates due to concerns about animal welfare and disease control, which was supported by public comment detailing issues with puppy transfers and alleged misrepresentation of outcomes. Public comment throughout the meetings raised concerns about staffing, transparency, data accuracy, and the need for improved animal care and community engagement. This document is a report detailing investigations into various complaints lodged against the Alachua County Animal Resources (ACAR) facility and its leadership, including Gina Peebles, Brittany D'Azzo, and Kyle Fehl. The report addresses allegations ranging from pest infestations and inadequate animal care to mismanagement of euthanasia protocols and staff. For most complaints, the investigation found insufficient evidence to substantiate wrongdoing or that ACAR fell below the expected standard of care, although some issues were partially substantiated. Key findings include that while rat infestations were present, ACAR has a pest management plan. The practice of 'Returned to Field' (RTF) for cats is consistent with county code. Concerns about disease outbreaks like parvovirus were deemed not widespread or abnormal given the nature of shelter animals. Allegations regarding population management, water provision, and euthanasia practices were largely unsubstantiated against current leadership, with explanations provided for system upgrades, data reporting issues, and decision-making processes. The report also addresses specific animal welfare cases (Gia, Royal, Monkeybread, Liam) and staff conduct, generally finding that decisions were made within reasonable discretion or based on available information, though some areas for improvement in post-operative care and communication were noted. Recommendations include enhancing security measures, re-evaluating the 'no-kill' goal's impact on welfare, adopting the 5 Domains of animal welfare, and providing ongoing training. This document is part 3 of 3 and contains recommendations for ACAR staff regarding euthanasia reporting, behaviorist roles, and community engagement. It does not contain information about specific development projects, addresses, sizes, zoning changes, applicants, case numbers, decisions, or key dates related to construction or contracting opportunities. The document mentions a site visit on May 6, 2026, but provides no project details.