The City of Gadsden’s new administration is taking steps to address concerns about unhoused and uncontrolled animals in the City through a new advisory group.

“In an effort to determine the best options for alleviating these concerns, I am appointing a task force of individuals who are well-versed in issues of animal concern to study the issue and report to me with recommendations for action,” said Gadsden Mayor Craig Ford.

This team will be referred to as the Mayor’s Action Team for Animal Concerns (MATAC), and the following members have been appointed: Gina Hollingsworth, Chris Moulds, Mitchell Chastain, Kate Pickette, Dr. Donna Gurley, Darlene Moore, Lt. Cliff Heard, Pastor Joe Simmons, Rev. Ed Jones, and Pastor Grady Robinson.

Mayor Ford will work alongside the Gadsden City Council and communicate about the task force’s activities and potential recommendations, which may require action from the council as a result of the study.