Council tables 30‑year MOU for regional animal shelter after concerns about timing and fees

Staff presented a proposed 30‑year memorandum of understanding to govern operations of the regional animal shelter located at 1011 Lee Highway in Verona. The new facility’s ownership structure differs from the former shelter and the county will retain legal ownership of the new location; the MOU sets governance terms for expense sharing, capital contributions and administrative functions.

Key elements described by staff include Waynesboro’s capital contribution of about $1,100,000, a 30‑year term, the county’s role as fiscal agent with a 4% administrative fee split evenly between Staunton and Waynesboro, and a repayment mechanism if a member city is later expelled (repayment reduces pro rata by 3.33% annually). Staff recommended proceeds from the sale of the former shelter property be credited back to members for maintenance of the new facility.

Several councilmembers expressed reservations about finalizing an MOU after the new shelter had opened and questioned whether a flat 4% administrative fee reflects the county’s allocated workload. One councilmember said he was reluctant to support the MOU because previous arrangements had not required such fees. Following discussion, council moved to table the item for further consideration.