Animal Advisory Board

Agendas & Minutes

Agendas are available prior to the meetings. Minutes are available following approval.

Membership

Nine members appointed to serve one-year terms. 

Apply to Serve

Find application here. 

Members
 Position Term Expiring
Barbara Willy Chair September 30, 2026
Carolyn Bender Veterinarian September 30, 2026
Laura Winters Animal Rescue Representative September 30, 2026
Ellen Tarver Animal Shelter Volunteer September 30, 2026
Joanne Gonzales Member September 30, 2026
Michael Yaakovian Member September 30, 2026
Ruchika Behal Member September 30, 2026
Carol Hill Member September 30, 2026
Marion Nixon Member September 30, 2026
Mark Grothaus Animal Shelter Employee N/A
Melissa Hobson Municipal Official N/A

Establishment

The Animal Advisory Board is created as required by state law with appointments being made pursuant to membership requirements and qualifications as provided by state law.

Purpose

The purpose of the board is to review and recommend procedures for the care and maintenance of animal shelter facilities and impounded animals to insure compliance with state law; and to periodically review the city animal control ordinances and make recommendations for revisions. State law requires that the board meet at least three (3) times a year.   

More Information

Learn more about the Animal Advisory Board, current activities, the animal shelter expansion project, and more by visiting: www.sugarlandtx.gov/AnimalAdvisoryBoard.