[Adopted 6-2-2014 by Ord. No. 1472-14]
The Middle Township Animal Welfare Advisory Council exists for the purpose of promoting and protecting the health, safety and welfare of companion animals in the Township of Middle. The Middle Township Animal Welfare Advisory Council works to promote responsible pet care and to ensure that pets do not suffer due to abuse, neglect or lack of proper care. The purpose of this board is help promote the well-being of domestic and companion animals through our community while providing essential information and recommendations to the governing body of the Township of Middle and Middle Township Department of Animal Control regarding various safety and quality of life issues. Determination to enact legislation regarding these recommendations is at the discretion of the governing body.
The Middle Township Animal Welfare Advisory Council may be convened when a case is brought to the Business Administrator, Chief of Police or Animal Control Officer, and will meet on a case-by-case basis.
A. 
The members of the Middle Township Animal Welfare Advisory Council shall consist of seven voting members who are residents of the municipality. The members of said council shall be appointed by the Township Committee of the Township of Middle.
B. 
The members on the Middle Township Animal Welfare Advisory Council will consist of the following members:
(1) 
Middle Township Animal Control Officer or substitute Animal Control Officer in his absence.
(2) 
Liaison of Middle Township Police Department.
(3) 
Seven voting members, one of which who will serve as the Chairman of the Council, and who shall be appointed as the Chairman of the Council by the Township Committee.
(4) 
Two alternate members.
(5) 
One local veterinarian, to serve in advisory position.
C. 
The Middle Township Animal Welfare Advisory Council shall utilize the services of a Board Secretary as may be appointed by the Township Committee and shall utilize the services of the Township Solicitor for all legal matters.
The members of the Middle Township Animal Welfare Advisory Council shall be chosen by virtue of their known and consistent reputation for integrity.
The initial membership shall consist of the Council Chairman and three additional members holding three-year terms. The remaining three members and two alternate members shall hold two-year terms. Thereafter, all members shall serve for three years. Members of the Council shall serve without pay and serve at the liberty of the Township Committee.
Any vacancy occurring in the membership of the Middle Township Animal Welfare Advisory Council shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointment for the unexpired term.
The Township Committee shall provide the Middle Township Animal Welfare Advisory Council with a location to conduct of its business and the preservation of its records, and shall supply equipment and supplies as may be necessary.