By Becky Holland
COCHRAN — The City of Cochran has temporarily suspended animal pickups following the retirement of longtime animal control officer Darrell Miller, while city officials search for a full-time replacement.
Interim City Manager Angela Redding provided written responses to questions from The Ledger about the status of animal control services and the care of animals currently housed at the city facility.
According to Redding, Miller notified Cochran Police Chief Jeff Trawick during the week of Aug. 10 that he planned to retire, giving the city a standard two-week notice. His final day was Friday, Aug. 28.
Redding said the two-week period did not provide enough time to hire a replacement, although Trawick began advertising the position before Miller’s retirement became effective.
In the meantime, city employees are caring for animals already housed at the city’s animal control facility.
“City employees are caring for the animals and are being paid for the extra duties,” Redding stated.
Animal control pickups, however, have stopped until a full-time replacement is hired.
“Currently, there are no pickups until a full-time person is hired,” Redding stated.
Residents who encounter a dangerous animal may still contact the Cochran Police Department to make a report.
Redding said the city is actively seeking a new animal control officer and plans to resume normal services once someone has been hired for the position.
The situation raised questions about what services would remain available after Miller’s departure and how animals already housed at the shelter would be cared for.
Redding said Trawick had developed a plan before Miller retired to ensure the animals currently housed at the facility continued receiving care.
No estimated date was provided for hiring a replacement or resuming animal pickups.
Until then, city employees will continue caring for the animals currently in the city’s custody, while residents needing assistance with a dangerous animal are directed to contact the Cochran Police Department.
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