Tom Thompson's Public Safety Push: Animals Not Included

San Angelo Mayoral Candidate and current Council member Tom Thompson is focused on public safety, at least the departments that don't involve stray animals.  Police and Fire need to expand to serve the community as it grows.  The power vested in the Mayor is chairing City Council meetings and hiring the City Manager.  Should Thompson win, he would need the majority of Council to direct staff to prioritize the development of Police and Fire Departments.  

Animal Services is the third wheel in public safety.  I suggested in June 2022 that City Council consider Animal Services in their strategic planning sessions, providing Council members data from public information requests.  That did not happen, even though the suggestion fit with Thompson's "need to keep pace" public safety vision.

Just days ago, Animal Shelter contractor Concho Valley PAWS sponsored an animal focused candidate forum which Thompson could not attend due to prior commitments.  He did however send a written statement.  

PAWS served as the shelter's adoption coordinator and veterinary services provider for at least seven years.  PAWS has been there for the various crises, including the roach infestation/horrific hoarding conditions (September 2022).   Tom Thompson instructed staff in its aftermath to implement a hard cap on shelter capacity (November 2022).  He did so during a City Council meeting informational agenda item, one that required no vote.  

Thompson's letter cited funds set aside for Animal Shelter renovations, which Council clearly stated just gets the existing building to a functional state and does not take into account people or pet population growth.  

Should a candidate be proud of approving borrowing $1.6 million in early 2023 for a project that is yet to be bid over two years later?  

The city already had a $345,000 capital budget for shelter improvements when Council approved the first short term debt borrowing.  That makes up the majority of Thompson's "$400,000 in sales tax" money for the project.  

Tom Thompson has a record on public safety.  He's lucky animals can't vote.  

Update 4-29-25:

Leadership grounded in facts, absolutely.

Update 5-2-25:  The special Animal Services Taskforce will present their analysis and findings to City Council at their next meeting to be held on May 6, 2025.

Update 5-3-25:  Tom Thompson has been elected Mayor of San Angelo.