Pasco wants to keep control of animal shelter

PASCO – Staff from the city of Pasco recently recommended to the city council that the city continue managing the Tri-Cities Animal Control and Shelter, which it has done on an interim basis since mid-July.

Since taking over the Tri-Cities Animal Control and Shelter, city staff established needed policies, procedures, and standards for animal control and shelter services and overcame the challenges of overcrowding and a canine parvovirus outbreak. Additionally, upgrades to the shelter’s technology have been made and the first phase of new infrastructure improvements to the animal shelter is scheduled to begin before the end of the year.

In November 2021, the Tri-Cities Animal Control Authority, which consists of the cities of Pasco, Kennewick, and Richland, invited the Benton Franklin Humane Society to assume operational control of the Tri-Cities Animal Shelter, including all operations for regional animal control, shelter operations, and personnel management. This was due to an urgent and emergency action initiated when law enforcement took action against the previous contractor, prompting their immediate and unplanned dismissal. BFHS completed its term of the emergency agreement on July 15.

“After a careful look at the operation and facility of the animal shelter, it was clear that a city-managed shelter would be the best route for both the taxpayer and the animals in our collective care,” Pasco City Manager Dave Zabell said. “While the interlocal agreement between the three cities allows for a member city to perform the animal shelter and control functions, I’m grateful that the cities of Kennewick and Richland are supportive of this change.”

The estimated annual budget for the Pasco-managed operation of the Tri-Cities Animal Control and Shelter is $2 million dollars, split evenly among the three cities. This amount would be approximately $400,000 more a year over the BFHS contract.

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Elkhorn Media Group

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