Under the supervision of Chief of Staff Jack Jinks, Stacey McElhaney has been appointed interim director of the Roane County Animal Shelter. McElhaney had previously served as office manager for the facility. She and other staff members reportedly expressed concerns regarding maintenance issues, volunteer relationships and communication with the public. Internal concerns include facilitating communication, standardizing policies/procedures and purchasing proper tools and safety equipment to conduct shelter-related activities.

Director McElhaney will be in charge of daily operations and coordinating implementation of short- and long-term goals, such as facilitating communication with staff and the public, and managing a budget for some major shelter responsibilities. She reportedly saw immediate improvement through the implementation of a three-step plan for dealing with the public and staff. These include:

1. Treat others as you wish to be treated.
2. Do the right thing.
3. Do your best every day.