Hawaii Island Humane Society hires new CEO

The Hawaii Island Humane Society has hired a new CEO.

Charles Brown starts in early August, according to a Friday statement from the organization.

Brown has experience as a director of shelters in Indiana, Tennessee and Maryland. He previously served as a member of the Board of Directors for a humane society in Idaho and has worked closely with law enforcement agencies to investigate animal cruelty complaints.

A restructuring plan at the humane society has eliminated two positions, director of finance and director of shelter operations.

“We thank both Regina Serrano and Robert Belcher for their service to the Hawaii Island Humane Society and we wish them the best in their future endeavors,” said Hawaii Island Humane Society President Adam Atwood.

Atwood said a state-of-the-art animal community center in Kona is well under construction and phase 2, which includes a welcome center and adoption areas, should be completed by early 2020.

Phase 3 includes a veterinary clinic, animal control receiving and a barn for horses and cows, and will begin construction in 2020.

Two central bark dog parks opened last year.

“We remain committed to animal welfare and it truly takes a village. We are so appreciative of our team of dedicated staff, volunteers, community supporters and generous philanthropists that support the Hawaii Island Humane Society,” said Atwood.