Multnomah County Animal Services Community Advisory Committee (CAC)
The Multnomah County Animal Services Community Advisory Committee (CAC) is a community advisory body set up to advise the Animal Services Director on service improvements from the public’s perspective, elevate diverse community voices, and act as a liaison between MCAS and the public to help raise awareness of MCAS, its roles, and responsibilities. The Mission of the Animal Services CAC is to build and maintain a trusting and collaborative relationship with Multnomah County Animal Services (MCAS), learn and understand what MCAS does and why, and provide equity-focused feedback to the MCAS Director on how MCAS can best serve the people and pets of Multnomah County. The committee is made up of 9-12 members of the public. We are seeking folks with lived experience with pet ownership or who have received MCAS services, and who live or work in Multnomah County. We are excited to work with people who are focused on impact and will commit to trust-building and collaboration.
Advisory Committee Terms
- Term 1: Sept. 1, 2024 - August 31, 2025
- Term 2: 2025 - 2027. The Community Advisory Committee recruitment is closed. Committee applications are being reviewed.
CAC Members Honored at 2025 Volunteer Awards
Andrew Beckman, Leah Bookner, Gray Bouchat, Margaret Clement, Denise Holmes, Laura Lambruschi, Tara Martin, Natalie Mesa-Smith, Sharon Methvin, April Milan, Kelly Peterson, Nancy Yull.
This group of dedicated community members stepped up to join the reformed MCAS Community Advisory Committee, navigating the first year of a brand-new framework for engaging with Animal Services. Previous CAC bodies faced historical challenges following organizational transitions, and frustrations with opportunities for meaningful contribution. However, the new CAC members showed up to every meeting to build a renewed foundation of mutual trust with Animal Services and the County. They defined core values, developed a comprehensive work plan and bylaws, and established a membership agreement—all done selflessly to pave the way for future committees. Whether in the pouring rain of a Portland winter or a warm summer evening, they showed up to make a difference for the animals at the shelter and in the community, and we are deeply grateful for their time and vision.