Charlotte-Mecklenburg Animal Shelter To Separate From Police Oversight, Eyes Major Expansion
CHARLOTTE, NC — Big changes are coming to Charlotte-Mecklenburg Animal Care and Control (ACC), starting July 1, as the department officially parts ways with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department and begins operating as an independent division.
The move comes after months of advocacy from animal welfare supporters and shelter volunteers who’ve pushed for more transparency, accessibility, and flexibility in operations.
No more police oversight — and a path to ‘no-kill’
Dr. Josh Fisher, director of the shelter, says the daily goal is clear: find space for every animal that comes through the door — and get them adopted.
“Our shelter manager is a whiz when it comes to animal Tetris,” Fisher told Queen City News. “Every single day, it’s about making as much room as possible.”
The shelter is aiming to hit a 90% no-kill rate, a milestone many animal advocates in Charlotte consider vital. Fisher says separating from police oversight will allow the department to better engage with volunteers and community resources.
New volunteer pathways and $30M for expansion
With the change, the shelter will soon debut a new logo and streamlined onboarding for volunteers, making it easier for people to give animals the one-on-one attention they need.
City council has also approved $30 million in funding to build a satellite adoption facility near the Jeff Adams Tennis Center off South Tryon Street. While construction details are still being finalized, Fisher noted the team is focused on maximizing the value of the investment.
“We’ve got to figure out how far we can make that $30 million go,” Fisher said.
Do you support Charlotte’s plan to expand and separate animal care from police oversight? Share your views in the comments — and follow more local updates at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
