Maricopa’s new animal control vehicle fully equipped

Maricopa is again expanding services to its citizens. A recent purchase of a new Ford F250 will serve as the new vehicle for animal control.

Much work has already gone into equipping the vehicle, including a box fitted on the rear of the vehicle with eight cages for animals, air conditioning, specially hinged doors, spotlights and overhead lighting for safety and exposure.

Brian Duncan, Maricopa Senior Code Compliance Officer and liaison with Animal Care and Control of Pinal County, said, “The fully equipped vehicle was close to $46,000.”

“The city was obligated to provide the vehicle as well as tools for the Animal Care and Control Officer. Some items purchased were humane traps, catchpoles, bite sticks, cat gloves, a blowgun and a dart gun. The city spent approximately $2,200 on equipment,” explained Duncan.

Pinal County has provided Animal Control Officer J.J. Johnson through an intergovernmental agreement. This means he is available to Maricopa residents but ultimately answers to supervisors in Pinal County.

Johnson will be available during business hours, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. His office is located in City Hall at 45145 West Madison in Maricopa. Dog licensing will be available every Wednesday, excluding holidays, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

“The animal control vehicle will be utilized by Johnson as a take home vehicle,” said Duncan. All animals apprehended during his shift will be taken to the Pinal County Animal Shelter, which is located at 764 South Eleven Mile Corner in Casa Grande.

Any animal control emergencies can be reported after hours by calling 520-509-3555 or 888-431-1311 and following the automated prompts. The animal cruelty hotline is 520-866-7618.

Photo by Brandi Stange