The Riverside County Board of Supervisors held a regular meeting on October 29, 2024, addressing various agenda items and public concerns. The meeting commenced with a motion to approve items not pulled from sections 1 through 15, which was seconded and unanimously approved.

Following the administrative matters, the meeting transitioned to public comments, where eleven speakers expressed their concerns, primarily focusing on animal welfare issues related to a local sanctuary. The first speaker, Bunny Ambergue, detailed her experiences volunteering at a sanctuary run by Howard Berkowitz, highlighting alarming conditions for the animals. She described witnessing overcrowded and unsanitary living situations for a variety of birds, including ducks, geese, and pigeons, which she claimed were being kept inhumane conditions.

Amanda Hausler, another volunteer, echoed Ambergue's concerns, stating that the animals were not receiving adequate care and were living in filthy environments. She emphasized the urgent need for intervention, noting that the situation was overwhelming for the limited help available.

Sasha Knoff, the third speaker, added to the testimony by reporting that the sanctuary was hoarding hundreds of animals, including illegal species. She mentioned the discovery of deceased birds on the property and criticized the superficial response from animal control.

The Board acknowledged the speakers and indicated that the code enforcement and animal services directors would engage with them to discuss the ongoing situation and potential actions. The meeting concluded with a commitment to address the serious concerns raised regarding animal welfare at the sanctuary, signaling a proactive approach from the Board in response to public advocacy.