Animal Shelter Renamed After Former Councilman

The Wayne Township Animal Shelter will be renamed The Alan Purcell Animal Shelter. The council approved an ordinance Wednesday formally changing the name.

Purcell has helped rescue abused and neglected animals for years. He is a member of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and used to volunteer at the shelter regularly. He was instrumental in moving the shelter to Pompton Plains Crossroads.

“Alan has worked tirelessly for years to help animals at the shelter,” said Sally Herman, shelter manager. “He’s done so much for the animals here

Purcell resigned from the council in June. His health has been deteriorating in recent months. He has been battling Emphysema since 2004.

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