Billboard Blasts Riverside County Officials Over Animal Shelter Crisis

Drivers on the I-10 freeway near Indian Canyon Drive in Palm Springs are greeted with a bold billboard demanding accountability from Riverside County officials Jeff Van Wagenen and Manny Perez over the county’s handling of animal services. The sign, paid for by "concerned citizens of Coachella Valley," highlights the staggering number of 24,000 animals euthanized and directly calls out both officials.

Critics argue that county leadership has mishandled the situation, focusing on budgetary choices that include spending $2.1 million on a consultant while animal services request an additional $750,000 for medical care. “Why allocate millions for consulting when medical needs are underfunded?” many community members ask.

During a discussion on The Roggin Report, contributors Tammy Bleck and Stephanie Green voiced their frustration. “The billboard educates people who might not know the extent of the crisis,” Bleck said. Green added, “Supervisors need to take a hard look at their spending priorities. There’s no excuse.”

Beyond the billboard, public outrage continues to grow, with calls for greater transparency and a reevaluation of how public funds are being used, especially regarding animal welfare.

While questions remain about whether county officials will be held accountable, community advocates vow to keep the pressure on.