§ 4-3. Animal control officer.

(a)

There is hereby created the office of animal control officer, which officer shall enforce the provisions of this chapter.

(b)

The animal control officer is authorized to issue citations to persons violating this article for trial in a municipal or other court having jurisdiction.

(c)

The animal control officer, as well as employees and agents of the animal control officer, and persons under his control and supervision, are empowered to seize animals as required by this chapter so long as the animals are within the jurisdiction. These employees and agents have the right to go onto private property within the jurisdiction for the purposes of enforcing the provisions of this chapter provided it is necessary for such purpose. Animal control officers shall have the authority to issue citations and subpoenas to witnesses and to require their appearance in municipal or other court having jurisdiction on any matter relating to the enforcement of any provision contained herein.

(d)

The animal control officer shall be appointed by the Board of Commissioners of the City of Hawkinsville and may be appointed in accordance with an agreement with the City of Hawkinsville and Pulaski County, Georgia.

(e)

The City of Hawkinsville may contract with Pulaski County, Georgia for joint animal control services; for the hiring of an animal control officer and other employees, and for the provision of an animal shelter.

(f)

The Board of Commissioners of the City of Hawkinsville may assign additional duties or the duties of animal control officer to any officer or employee of City of Hawkinsville.

(g)

The animal control officer is authorized to make whatever inquiries are deemed necessary to insure compliance with the provisions with this chapter. All law enforcement officers of the City of Hawkinsville shall cooperate with animal control officers in enforcing the provisions of this chapter.

(Ord. of 7-1-02)