BELL COUNTY, Texas — The Bell County Commissioners Court on Monday debated a proposal to add an animal services outreach coordinator, with disagreements over staffing needs, costs and whether the position should be under the sheriff’s office.

Commissioner Louie Minor, who recently adopted a pet, proposed hiring the coordinator with a salary of $37,000 plus benefits. He was the only vote in favor, with the other three commissioners opposing the motion. A second motion to place the position under the sheriff’s office also failed.

Animal rescue organizations have been working to assist the shelter while advocating for systemic changes. Frances Fischer, co-founder of Journey Home Rescue, told commissioners her organization has rescued five dogs from the shelter in the past month alone and do

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