BELL COUNTY, Texas (KXXV) — Bell County Commissioners Court approved its 2025-26 budget Monday, including about $50,000 for a new outreach rescue coordinator at the county animal shelter, a move aimed at addressing months of concern over high euthanasia rates. Animal control officers say the coordinator is a step forward, but problems with irresponsible pet ownership remain.

Bell County Commissioners Court approved the 2025-26 budget Monday, which includes funding for a long-awaited outreach rescue coordinator position at the Bell County Animal Shelter.

Approximately $50,000 in funding including benefits, covered by the county’s payroll reserve.

Lt. Jared Alton was also appointed as shelter supervisor by Sheriff Cooke.

Animal advocates argue staffing shortages remain a major issue. Mea

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