Overview of the Agreement
At a recent commission meeting, Hancock County officials approved a lease and operating agreement that transfers the management of the county’s animal shelter to the Jefferson County Humane Society. This decision marks a significant shift in how the shelter will be operated, with the goal of improving animal care and efficiency.
Commissioners emphasized that the move is intended to allow the shelter to be managed by an organization with more experience in animal care. Commissioner Eron Chek highlighted this point, stating, "The commission is not the right agency to run an animal shelter. We are concerned about money, and they are concerned about animals. Those two things are too conflicted to do any good."
Financial Implications
Under the new contract, the county will provide $330,000 for the remainder of the fiscal year. This funding will come from the general fund, dog fund, and animal shelter levy. Finance Administrator Ira Aracich noted that this amount represents a significant decrease from the usual annual spending on the shelter.
"Traditionally, the county spent from $600-$700,000 on the operations of the animal shelter in any given year doing payroll, utilities, and veterinary services," Aracich said. The reduction in funding is a notable change, but it comes with potential benefits for the shelter.
As a nonprofit organization, the Jefferson County Humane Society can accept certain grants and donations, which the county-run shelter could not do before. This flexibility may help support the shelter's operations and improve its ability to care for animals.
Benefits of the New Management
Aracich expressed confidence in the new partnership, stating, "We are stepping into an agreement with a professional, friendly and forthright organization that only has the best interest of the animals at heart in the citizens following." He added that the experience brought by the humane society will help animals find homes faster, as they have a much higher and faster placement rate than the county has been able to achieve.
The Jefferson County Humane Society will bring both full and part-time employees, along with volunteers, to support operations in Hancock County. Commissioners assured that the current shelter staff will remain employed, ensuring continuity in service.
Medical Services and Operations
Commissioner Tommy Ogden provided additional details about the medical services that will be available. "Jefferson County has four vets on staff, the way I understand it. They have three that are licensed in West Virginia. We are going to put a small room on our current shelter and maybe look at other avenues, but we’re gonna try to have a medical room where our safely kept and some minor surgeries can be performed."
This initiative aims to enhance the medical capabilities of the shelter, allowing for better care of the animals in need.
Timeline and Next Steps
The agreement will take effect immediately once the contract is signed on October 31. The Jefferson County Humane Society will oversee operations for an eight-month term through the end of the fiscal year. This period will provide an opportunity to assess the effectiveness of the new management approach and make any necessary adjustments.
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