Coachella Valley Animal Commission Discusses Reforms Amid Controversy

The Coachella Valley Animal Commission convened yesterday to discuss pressing concerns about the treatment of animals and the management of the Coachella Valley Animal Campus. Representatives from eight valley cities make up the commission, although Indio’s representative and County CEO Jeff Van Wagenen were notably absent. Van Wagenen’s attendance was a question mark after a lawsuit filed two weeks ago accused him of mismanaging the animal services department, allegedly costing taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars. During public comment, residents demanded the termination of a $2.5 million contract with shelter consultant Kristen Hassen and pushed for more accessible spay and neuter services to combat animal overpopulation. Supervisor Manuel Perez attended and pledged to present these concerns to the Board of Supervisors. He also expressed openness to a third-party audit of the county's record-keeping, which has faced scrutiny in recent months. Commission Chair Karina Cantan shared optimism following the meeting: "I feel we were finally heard... today was very productive." The commission elected new leadership, naming Cathedral City Mayor Nancy Ross as chair and La Quinta City Councilmember Steve Sanchez as vice-chair, though neither attended. Progress was acknowledged, but significant steps remain to achieve a no-kill shelter countywide. Tune in tonight at 6 for an in-depth look at the challenges and potential solutions.