Windsor/Essex Humane Society hired lawyer to investigate complaints

Published Jul 20, 2024 • 2 minute read

The Windsor/Essex County Humane Society in Windsor is shown on Monday, July 15, 2024. Photo by Dan Janisse /Windsor Star

The Windsor/Essex County Humane Society’s decision to fire the organization’s longtime executive director came after its board hired a lawyer to probe employee complaints, the Star has learned.

A senior staff member, who asked to remain anonymous over concern for their job, told the Windsor Star that the board of directors received complaints they believed warranted an investigation. The inquiry resulted in the dismissal of Melanie Coulter, who had been executive director for 15 years.

“It is their job to take things seriously. Unfortunately, how this investigation played out was more like a witch hunt — only talking to people who might have had complaints,” claimed the employee, who supports Coulter.

Some staff and volunteers subsequently wrote to the board urging them to reconsider their decision, according to the employee and a former board member.

In a staff email obtained by the Star, the board said it would not respond to “any inquiries about any investigation or the factors that led to Melanie’s departure.

“Any decision made by the board with respect to this issue is final and will not be revisited,” the email read. “The Board will be reviewing the circumstances giving rise to a breach in confidentiality.

“It is most unfortunate that confidentiality was not maintained. It is also clear that aspects of the information circulating are inaccurate.”

The board did not respond to the Star’s request for comment.

The employee said the board has left staff in the dark in regards to its decision to dismiss Coulter from the animal protection organization.

“It’s time for some answers to some very obvious questions,” said Dexter Robinson, a former board member who served for almost nine years.

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In this November 29, 2017, file photo, Melanie Coulter, dismissed earlier this month as executive director of the Windsor/Essex County Humane Society, shares a hug with Topanga, one of the dogs up for adoption. Photo by Dan Janisse /Windsor Star

On Tuesday, the local humane society announced it is seeking applications for new candidates to join the board of directors.

“Candidates for the board are selected from the community, and are individuals, who are passionate about the WECHS and animal welfare and have skills that assist the board with its overall goals,” the release said.

“Volunteer board members are elected by the WECHS membership at the annual general meeting and serve a three-year term in accordance with the organization’s by-laws.”

The post did not mention the number of positions the board wants to fill. Veterinary services at the humane society have also been suspended.

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In a statement on July 12, the organization said it had also temporarily ceased medical services for the public because its veterinarian is “presently away from the workplace.”

Rob Moroz, the humane society’s interim executive director, told the Star the non-profit is “working on restoring this essential service.”

At the time her departure was announced, Coulter told the Star in an emailed statement July 12 that she was “immensely proud” of her team’s work and that she had not been provided with information as to why she was let go. Coulter said she was advised by her lawyer not to provide any further comments.

To request a copy of your pet’s medical records, email [email protected] or call 519-966-1118.

— With files from Taylor Campbell.

[email protected]

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