Town Of Mills Starts Its Own Animal Control Program; Leaves Metro

The Town of Mills will start its own animal control services and end its contract with the City of Casper and Metro Animal Control on June 30, according to a news release from the town.

“This update provides better services to our residents and is more cost effective for the Town of Mills,” Mayor Seth Coleman said.

"We’ve appreciated Metro’s services in the past," Coleman said. "As we move forward, we need to continue to identify and leverage opportunities that work best for our community and residents."

On July 1, the town's new Community Services Division will take over animal control, code enforcement, and other duties that do not require a sworn officer. The Mills Police Department will oversee the division.

This is more cost effective for Mills and will allow for two full-time code enforcement officers.

Animal licensing will be streamlined. More time will be allotted for handling local control issues. The town also will contract with the Humane Society for shelter and adoption services, and will contract with local veterinarians for medical services

The town researched and compared ways of dealing with animal control including the new Community Services Division, bringing all services in house, and staying with Metro. Both existing and new community services officers have received extensive training on code enforcement and animal training.

The Town Council has passed new Animal Control Codes on second reading and is receiving public comments this month as these codes are considered again.

The draft is available on the Town of Mills’ website.

Mills residents can reach code enforcement or animal control services 24 hours a day through the Mills Police Department at (307) 266-4796.

Animals can be dropped off at the Police Department, 4800 W. Yellowstone Highway, during business hours from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Alternatively, a community service officer may be available any time to pick up animals.