Newsletter

Southeast Area Animal Control Authority Celebrates 50^th Anniversary

The California JPIA recognizes Authority member the Southeast Area Animal Control Authority (SEAACA), which celebrated its 50th anniversary in October.

On October 16, 1975, the cities of Downey, Norwalk, and Pico Rivera co-established SEAACA to improve animal care and control services in the region. The organization has since grown to serve approximately 811,876 residents across 14 cities. SEAACA enforces animal-related laws, rescues animals from abuse and neglect, reunites lost pets with families, and adopts unclaimed animals to new homes while promoting responsible pet ownership.

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“The California JPIA has been a continuous resource for our success,” said SEAACA Executive Director Denise Woodside. “The Authority creates our foundational resources, and training. They have a deep understanding of risk management that our team makes efforts to follow. By regularly engaging with the Authority, we’re able to help animals and the community while doing everything we can to be safe and strategic.”

The partnership between SEAACA and the California JPIA extends beyond training. “They’ve been there for us when there are times of need, helping properly file claims and supporting us,” said Woodside. “Working in public service, these sorts of things do come up, so it’s important to have somebody there that you can rely on.”

SEAACA has received multiple recognitions from the California JPIA in acknowledgement of their efforts including risk management awards for best overall performance for non-municipal agencies for the liability and workers’ compensation programs.

“It is a pleasure working with Denise and her staff,” said Risk Manager Melaina Francis. “SEAACA is deeply committed to continually improving their agency’s risk profile and maintaining a safe working environment for all employees. I look forward to our continued partnership in the years to come.”

The organization celebrated the milestone with proclamations, recognitions and commendation from member cities displayed in the front lobby, a staff luncheon, commemorative challenge coins for Board Commissioners and staff, and a $50 pet adoption promotion.

While celebrating 50 years of progress, Woodside noted there’s still work to do. “Currently, only about 30 percent of all pets acquired come from shelters. As much as we have enough to celebrate, there is always room for improvement!”

Congratulations to SEAACA for 50 years of protecting the health, safety, and welfare of both animals and people. To learn more about SEAACA or to adopt a pet, visit their website at SEAACA.org.

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