City scales animal‑shelter plan down: staff says renovations can replace prior $15M teardown plan for roughly $3.2M–$3.4M

Staff updated council on progress at the municipal animal shelter and presented a revised scope that reduces the earlier $15 million demolition estimate in favor of phased rehabilitation.

Eric (S8) said front holding buildings (A–E) have been modernized with new kennels, epoxy floors, FRP wall paneling, improved HVAC, plumbing, dog‑wash sinks, a commercial dishwasher and other durable finishes. He described improvements to the cat adoption rooms, intake sally port and staff workspaces and said the completed buildings should last about 20 years.

"We don't need to tear down buildings. We can get away with a nice remodel, way less money," Eric said, summarizing the shift in approach. He gave a midrange procurement estimate of roughly $3.2M–$3.4M for the phased project and said volunteers and staff have responded positively to earlier work.

Staff also described future site components including additional parking, a separated cat adoption building (to reduce stress from dogs), a secure drive‑through intake, and potential dog‑park space. Council asked about spay and neuter capacity and animal medical services; staff pointed to a newer on‑site medical building and noted the shelter performs approximately 120 spay/neuter surgeries per week.

What’s next: staff will continue procurement for Phase 2, provide updated cost estimates as design details firm up, and present context on county contract coverage and funding.