There’s good news for the many residents who have been wondering when the town’s longtime animal control officer vacancy will be filled.
The Select Board appointed Hull Police Department Special Officer Michael Sampson to that position during a recent remote meeting, when he was interviewed briefly by board members. Select Board member John Reilly recused himself from the discussion because Sampson is his nephew.
Town Manager Philip Lemnios told the Hull Times after the meeting that Sampson has “a history of respecting the chain of command, working well independently, and representing the Department and the town in a professional and respectful manner with citizens and visitors [alike].”
Sampson, a 2008 Hull High School graduate, began employment with the Town of Hull Department of Public Works in 2008 as a seasonal employee, working on the beach and cemetery crews.
Beginning in 2015, Sampson completed the Plymouth County Intermittent Police Academy. The Selectmen then appointed him to the Hull Police Department as a Seasonal Officer and as a Special Officer.
His training included learning and following Department policy and Massachusetts General Laws and local bylaws. He is also certified in the proper and safe use of a firearm.
In 2018, Sampson received a letter of recognition for “quick and decisive action” in rescuing an emotionally disturbed person and evacuating other residents from an apartment building that was on fire “at risk to his own personal safety,” according to Lemnios.
Sampson loves “working with the people of Hull. They are friendly and outgoing,” he said, noting that he has served on various police details around town. ” I know the HPD chain of command and have a good relationship with town employees, the HPD, and [Police Chief John Dunn].”
Select Board member Donna Pursel asked Sampson,” What sparks your interest in the ACO position?” Sampson named his “passion for animals” as a main reason.
“You never know what will happen,” he said, citing a recent incident involving a swan during which he helped the bird get off the road and checked to ensure it was okay.
Before taking a vote, Select Board Member Domenico Sestito said that the strong recommendations for Sampson and his credentials “speak for themselves.”
Chair Jennifer Constable remarked that “it’s rewarding to hire local” for the position.
ACOs assist with incidents and answer questions about situations involving animals, among other responsibilities. These could include rescuing trapped or injured animals; capturing and impounding stray or dangerous animals; and educating the public on animal control safety, among others.
The Hull ACO is a part time position for 24 hours a week, with an annual salary of $28,500 per year. “For the balance of the time, it is the intention to utilize Officer Sampson to coordinate the town’s parking enforcement activities as well as continue in some of the duties he currently performs,” Lemnios said.
These could include assisting at the front desk, filling shifts as needed, and other administrative work. “This combination of duties will allow the Police Department to have coverage in a variety of areas, with a high degree of flexibility to direct activity as needed and with a longstanding employee who has a strong understanding of the community and experience with enforcement,” Lemnios said.
