Shannon Sims quietly took an early-than-expected retirement Tuesday as director of San Antonio’s embattled Animal Care Companies, officers with the town division confirmed to the Present.
Sims’ departure comes as the town continues its seek for a brand new ACS director. Sims initially introduced his intention to retire late final yr, telling the Categorical-Information he deliberate to go away in June. On the time, Sims additionally instructed the every day that he would stick round longer to assist the brand new ACS director alter to the demanding position, if obligatory.
ACS spokesperson Lisa Norwood didn’t instantly reply to the Present’s questions on what prompted Sims’ earlier-than-expected exit. Nevertheless, she stated Assistant Metropolis Supervisor David McCary, who acts as liaison between ACS and the town, will function interim director till a everlasting rent fills the position.
“We want ACS Director, Shannon Sims the perfect. We’re pleased with his 10-year dedication to ACS, and we enormously recognize his dedication to the group and animal welfare,” McCary stated in an announcement.
Sims’ two-and-a-half-year tenure as ACS director was mired in controversy after a slew of headline-making canine assaults rocked San Antonio. Animal advocates have additionally criticized the division’s low live-release price and blasted it for unintentionally euthanizing of three canines final summer time that weren’t alleged to be put down.
In his farewell handle final week, Sims attacked the division’s critics, calling them “social media terrorists.”
A complete of 74 folks have utilized to switch Sims, McCary stated throughout a presentation final week. Of these candidates, not less than 9 have moved on the subsequent spherical of in-person interviews, based on paperwork obtained by the Present. Two of the candidates are present ACS staff.
ACS Advisory Board member Valerie Moore instructed the Present the interviews will start Could 31.
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