MEMPHIS, TN-- Matthew Pepper, the current director of the Memphis Animal Shelter, has submitted a letter of resignation.
Pepper took over as administrator of the troubled shelter in March 2010, several months after sheriff's deputies raided it.
In a resignation letter to his boss, Janet Hooks, Pepper wrote "with the existing circumstances and the cloud of uncertainty that engulfs my current position as well as the organization in general it has become prudent that I find stability in my career and personal life."
The full transcript of Pepper's resignation letter is:
Director Hooks,
After careful and significant consideration, along with extensive deliberation with my family, I have made the determination that it is best for me both personally and professionally to resign from the position of Administrator of Animal Services.
With the existing circumstances and the cloud of uncertainty that engulfs my current position as well as the organization in general it has become prudent that I find stability in my career and in my personal life. I believe in the importance of what we do. I believe in the value of every life. Animal care and control is my passion, however, my wife and three children come before all.
In my year we have made significant strides towards advancing the department and animal welfare in our community. I hope, and will do all within my power, to assist the City of Memphis in continuing that trend in whatever manner I am able to.
Sincerely,
[signed]
Matthew Pepper
