GOING THROUGH THE AGENDA – The Hancock County Commission met in regular session Thursday, gathering in Courtroom 1 of the Hancock County Courthouse. Taking part were, from left, Commissioners Paul Cowey, Eron Chek, and Tommy Ogden, as well as County Clerk Karan Valenti. -- Craig Howell

NEW CUMBERLAND — There’s a new top dog in animal control for Hancock County.

During their meeting Thursday, Hancock County commissioners approved the hiring of Robert Notni for the position of dog warden/humane officer.

Notni is set to begin with the position Tuesday, and, according to information provided by the commission, he will have an annual salary of $40,000 as he begins at the post.

The hiring fills a vacancy created through the retirement of long-time humane officer Floyd Schulte, who departed the full-time position in November. Schulte agreed to return in a part-time capacity until someone new was hired.

Commissioner Paul Cowey explained the position of dog warden/humane officer is required of the county.

“This is state code,” Cowey said. “We have to have a humane officer.”

The commission began advertising for the post in early January, with a job description noting duties for the position including investigations of dog bites, rabies response, animal-related law enforcement, abuse and neglect investigations, animal capture, and other assigned tasks.

To be considered individuals needed to have at least a high school diploma, or its equivalent, be bonded to carry a firearm and pass a firearm qualification with a duty weapon, be physically capable of lifting 80 to 100 pounds, and have the agility to capture animals on all terrain, as well as be available for calls around the clock in addition to when scheduled.

“We’re excited to have him aboard,” Commissioner Tommy Ogden said. “I think he will be a great asset.”

County Administrator John Klee agreed.

“I think he will be a good addition,” Klee said.

County officials also have been advertising for the post of director of humane and shelter operations; a full-time position charged with overseeing the operations of the Hancock County Animal Shelter.

A job description for that post remains on the county’s website.