Meeting to decide future of BENCHS turns contentious

MANKATO, Minn. (KEYC) - Emotions ran high at a public meeting held to determine the future of the Blue Earth - Nicollet County Humane Society.

“I’m hoping that more communication comes out of this board meeting, as much as we possibly can, right now we’re at no communication, so hopeful for some more, hopeful for some staff appreciation as well,” said Ella Smith.

The meeting came as a result of struggles the humane society is currently facing. These include a lack of finances, staffing resignations, and tensions between the staff and the organization’s board.

Several of the attendees called on a board member to resign, prompting her to walk out.

One problem raised by several current staff members is the organization’s policy of not euthanizing animals. Staff members say that has led to animals living in misery.

“I sat here holding a dog who I loved with all my heart, until he basically choked himself to death,” said Smith.

However, many of the board members say they did not know about these problems, and want what is best for the community and their own staff.

“As a board member, it’s one of my roles to not communicate directly with the staff, so I’m not privy to a lot of information,” said John Brady. “I’m more involved with management.”

While tensions ran high, the meeting was ultimately productive - and by the end, both the board and the community at large were on one page: they want to make sure that at any cost, BENCHS does not close.

“I saw a lot of passion about what BENCHS means to the community, and that’s what the board and BENCHS needs to hear,” said Brady. “And I felt that tonight.”

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