Not only has the been without a permanent director for nearly two years, the position doesn't even exist.
Amid recent budget cuts, the department's director position was eliminated. It's been filled , and by the Bradshaw Road animal shelter's kennel supervisor.
Now, Interim Director and Kennel Supervisor Dave Dickinson may finally get the permanent title.
Dickinson is scheduled to be appointed the department's full-time director at the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors meeting Tuesday.
He was the top pick among 29 applicants and seven interviewees, according to a staff report.
"He organized and developed the successful shelter animal rescue program and has worked with local cities, councils, coalitions, associations, advocate groups and citizens to insure that the Sacramento County Department of Animal Care and Regulation continues to be the premier animal shelter in the region," the staff report states.
Dickinson, who has worked for the department for 11 years, could make a maximum salary of $121,325, according to the staff report. The change would become effective next week.