Kozachik Takes Charge of Pima Animal Care as New Interim Director

Former Tucson City Councilman Steve Kozachik has been appointed as the interim director of the Pima Animal Care Center (PACC), tasked with overseeing the search for a permanent replacement by April 2025. Pima County Administrator Jan Lesher announced this change on Friday, stating that Kozachik will officially take the reins on December 7, following the resignation of Monica Dangler.

Kozachik’s role will focus on a comprehensive “listening and learning process” designed to involve a wide array of stakeholders, including staff members, the Pima Animal Care Advisory Board, and various local animal care organizations. This initiative aims to ensure that PACC continues to function as a leading model among public animal care facilities in the nation.

Lesher lauded Dangler’s impactful leadership, noting her contributions in establishing PACC as a vital community resource by prioritizing public health and safety. Under her stewardship, PACC has earned accolades for transforming animal services into a supportive environment that emphasizes humane treatment and care for animals.

The center has made remarkable progress, achieving a dramatic reduction in euthanasia rates. Dangler’s report highlighted a 94 percent decrease in unnecessary deaths at PACC, attributing this success to a paradigm shift toward rehabilitation and training. This approach has also led to a 22 percent reduction in dog bites since 2010.

Kozachik resigned from the Tucson City Council earlier this year after representing Ward 6 since 2009. His brief stint outside public office included work on the Mosaic Quarter project, a public-private partnership aimed at enhancing Tucson’s South Side through athletic development. Previously, he held a position as associate director for sports facilities at the University of Arizona but departed amid controversies over COVID-19 management.

Lesher mentioned that Kozachik has collaborated closely with Deputy County Administrator Carmine DeBonis, Jr., to finalize necessary financial agreements for the Mosaic Quarter project. This extensive development will include various sports and entertainment facilities, expanding the existing Kino Sports Complex. Construction is expected to commence soon, as financing has recently been secured.

Dr. Francisco Garcia, Deputy County Administrator, will spearhead the search for PACC’s new director, with aspirations to fill the position by April 1, 2025.