Unicoi Animal Shelter names new director, eyes rebuild

The Unicoi County Animal Shelter announced new leadership and a temporary facility nearly a year after Helene destroyed its building.On Sept. 27, 2024, the shelter began to take on water during the storm. Floodwaters quickly rose several feet, prompting a rescue of all animals inside. Every animal was safely evacuated and taken to the nearby Food City for transport to other shelters or temporary homes.Since the storm, the Unicoi County Animal Welfare Board has worked to raise funds to rebuild the shelter, all while taking care of existing animals and duties. At its regular meeting on Aug. 22, the board introduced a new director and reviewed bids for the new shelter.The board hired Mollie Haren, a Johnson City veterinary technician with six years of experience, as director in mid-August. In an Aug. 25 interview with Six Rivers Media, Haren said she has worked at two rescue operations and is eager to begin her role at the facility.She is joined by part-time animal control officer Selena Baubilitz, who has remained in her position since the flood while also taking on extra responsibilities during the board's search for a director.During the meeting, the board discussed three construction bids for a new shelter, with an estimated total cost of about $1.139 million, according to members of the board.Previous board meetings outlined plans for larger kennels, separate intake entrances and a new mechanical system. The system, estimated at $300,000, would provide negative air flow to prevent disease from spreading between rooms. Board members noted the improvements could enhance animal welfare and strengthen future grant applications.Board member Richard Doris said at the Aug. 22 meeting that operating the shelter typically costs between $200,000 and $300,000 annually. Board member Charles Day said Unicoi County Mayor Evely has pledged $100,000 for operations once the shelter reopens. That announcement sparked discussion about seeking additional contractors to lower construction costs.While awaiting a new facility, the board has set up a temporary shelter equipped with electricity, water and climate control. Currently, only animals picked up by animal control and those awaiting court dates are housed in the temporary kennels, according to Haren.Board member Tiffany Swinehart said in a June meeting that the Washington County Animal Shelter and other regional shelters have taken in more than 300 Unicoi County animals since the storm. The board is now drafting a memorandum of understanding with regional partners to continue helping with the county's animal needs until a new shelter is built.Board members also highlighted fundraising and employee training at the Aug. 22 meeting.Baubilitz recently earned a scholarship to attend Basic Animal Control Officer Certification training in Chattanooga through the Animal Care and Control Association of Tennessee. Haren will join her. Both will also complete an animal cruelty investigation course and online training through the National Animal Care and Control Association. The board also voted to hire a second part-time animal control officer, with the motion passing.Swinehart said the board is also arranging for euthanasia technician certification, which is required before reopening. Once staff complete the training, the board plans to request a reinspection from the state.