Information on petition calling for resignation of multiple board members of the Ocooch Mountain Humane Society

WRCO News was sent the following information regarding the petition currently being circulated that calls for the resignation of multiple members of the Ocooch Mountain Humane Society Board of Directors:

OMHS recently adopted revised bylaws on May 13, 2026 (6 days prior to our annual meeting), that were drafted with the assistance of a third party as part of an effort to formalize the organization’s governance structure. During the drafting process, an initial version included provisions that would have allowed members to remove board members through a formal process. That provision was not included in the final version ultimately approved by the Board of Directors.

Under the adopted bylaws, governance authority and oversight of OMHS operations, services, and shelter management rest solely with the Board of Directors. The revised bylaws also give the board authority to determine and adjust the number of board members serving at any given time. In addition, the adopted bylaws renew the terms of existing board members without a vote of the membership.

In the interest of transparency, it is important for supporters, members, volunteers, and donors to understand how these governance changes affect organizational oversight and decision-making within OMHS.

Copies of the original, draft bylaws, and approved bylaws can be found on our website. 

The shelter manager, who is currently the sole paid employee, has indicated their intention to resign. In addition, a large majority of volunteers—estimated at approximately 90–100%—have also expressed plans to step away from their roles.

If these departures proceed as anticipated, the shelter could be left with a critical gap in daily care capacity, potentially affecting the ongoing care and wellbeing of approximately 140 cats currently in residence.

At this time, no clear or publicly communicated plan has been shared by the Board of Directors to address continuity of care or staffing needs in the event of these combined departures. 

The annual meeting of the Ocooch Mountain Humane Society will take place Tuesday, May 19th, at 6 PM, in Pippin Hall, which is in the basement level of the Richland Hospital – the meeting is open to the public.