Memphis is considering privatizing the city pound:
Chief Administrative Officer George Little said the city is in the middle of putting together what is called a “Request For Proposal,” also known as an RFP. An RFP allows companies to bid on getting a city contract to take over operations. Little said the proposal should be completed by the end of August.
Well this is a surprise. Although I’m not clear on how this would work exactly. Would the company be obligated to keep the existing staff, many of whom were responsible for direct animal care at the time dogs were being starved to death in 2009? I honestly can’t see how the situation at MAS would improve, even slightly, without a major personnel overhaul. (As well as policies, procedures and everything else.) I mean, would you want to bid on a contract for the Titanic with the same captain and crew in place?
Little said not only is the city open to privatization, they would consider a shelter where fewer animals are killed.
Oh Swellville. That’s mighty generous of you.
Knowing how Memphis sleazes it up operates with regard to the pound, I can’t help being suspicious. The timing sure is interesting as it coincides with Mayor Wharton’s announcement of his intent to seek re-election. But I really want to know some details on how privatization would work. Is this simply an attempt to distract us and/or for the city to find someone else to blame for the abuse and killings at MAS? If anyone has any info to share, please do.