Humane Society seeks $690,970 increase to county contract, citing service shortfall and staff benefits needs

Jenny Brown, executive director of the Humane Society of St. Joseph County, asked the St. Joseph County Council’s committee meeting on Jan. 13 to approve an additional $690,970 for the county contract, increasing the 2026 contract total to $1,310,000 and proposing a 3% increase for 2027. Brown said the Humane Society provides animal control and shelter services for county jurisdictions (except South Bend City) and that the county accounts for approximately 46.5% of the agency’s intake and case activity based on a three‑year average.

Brown presented the organization’s 2024 operating expenses of $2,034,959 and calculated that the county’s share of those costs would be $946,225 at a 46.5% allocation, while contracted funds were only $601,000, producing a $362,760 shortfall the humane society absorbed through donations and investments. The $690,970 request includes a $772,000 component for expanded employee benefits and payroll adjustments (roughly $310,000 estimated to buy health insurance and related benefits for about 30 employees and $300,000 for pay-equity adjustments including a full-time veterinarian), plus $90,000 for an animal-control vehicle and outfitting and $72,000 for major facility systems work.

Brown also said the county contract expired in December 2025 and the Humane Society is extending services through March 31 while negotiations continue with county commissioners. Council members asked about municipal contracts (Mishawaka negotiates separately; South Bend operates its own animal control) and revenue sources; Brown said the organization supplements contract revenue with fundraising, grants and donations. The committee did not vote on a final contract number in committee; the request will appear for further review by the full council.