Council approves purchase of equipment to start in‑house spay/neuter program at Commerce shelter

The Commerce City Council voted to authorize purchase of equipment to start an in-house spay/neuter program at the city animal shelter, after staff said in-house capacity would improve adoption rates and reduce euthanasia.

Haley, the animal-patrol officer, told the council the shelter had received 456 animal intakes since October, with 230 adoptions and 40 transfers to rescues. Haley said relying on outside clinics causes long waits and that doing procedures in-house would speed turnaround, reduce no‑shows and control costs.

"We have 456 just since October of last year. 230 of those have been adoptions," Haley said while requesting the equipment purchase and explaining the expected animal-care benefits. (Haley)

City staff previously estimated one piece of equipment could cost about $3,500, but veterinarian consultants recommended acquiring six pieces to ensure capacity sufficient to qualify for the state grant program; the six pieces would cost about $15,000. Staff said the shelter currently has about $6,500 in dedicated funds and argued the equipment investment could be paid back through adoption fees and operational savings, even if a state grant were not available.

City Manager Howdy Lisonbee said the program would not be open to the general public; it would serve animals adopted from the shelter and certain stray/feral-cat programs, and that warrants and legal processes remain in place for inspections or access where required.

Council voted to move forward with purchasing the full equipment list and authorized staff to proceed; the motion passed by voice vote.

What's next: Staff will acquire the equipment and work with the shelter advisory board and veterinary consultants to implement an in‑house program; if the state grant reopens or becomes available, the city may pursue reimbursement for procedures but said the business model can operate without it.