Riverside County Animal Services Faces Scrutiny Over $210,000 Spending Amid Calls for Reform

Riverside County Animal Services is facing mounting criticism for its allocation of $210,000 in consulting fees, raising questions about the efficacy of its policies and financial oversight. With one of the highest euthanasia rates in the country and persistent management issues, local advocates are demanding transparency and accountability. In 2023, consultant Kristen Hausen and her company, Outcome for Pets, were paid $50,000 to address these challenges. However, critics argue there has been little to no improvement. Meanwhile, $160,000 was paid to MGT Consulting to provide "customized solutions" for city and county agencies. The outcomes of these expenditures remain unclear, prompting calls for a forensic audit to uncover how taxpayer money has been used. Michael Phipps Russell, from Loving All Animals, highlighted these concerns at a recent Animal Commission meeting. Russell expressed frustration over the commission's limited role in shaping effective policies, stating that its original intent—to support shelters and address community complaints—has been largely ignored. Critics argue that Riverside County's approach has failed to address the root causes of its animal welfare crisis. Financial mismanagement, coupled with insufficient collaboration between the Animal Commission and county leaders, has exacerbated the situation. Advocates are now calling for greater community involvement and a reevaluation of the commission's role. Jill Marie Plaza, a tax administrator and contributor, emphasized the importance of conducting thorough audits to identify who approved these contracts and why. “Someone is signing these checks,” she said. “We need to ensure proper vetting and accountability moving forward.” As Riverside County faces pressure to reform, many are hopeful that a renewed focus on collaboration and oversight can lead to meaningful improvements for the region’s animals. The community continues to advocate for solutions that prioritize transparency, efficiency, and the welfare of shelter pets.