Lee County accepts $2 million bequest to animal services; funds reserved for programs, not operations

Lee County commissioners voted June 16 to accept a $2 million bequest from the estate of Janice M. Blazek to the Domestic Animal Services/Animal Care Trust Fund.

Rob (county attorney’s office) introduced the item and described the donor as a long‑time but modest resident who directed her estate to support animal services. Animal‑services staff told the board the donation is the largest the department has received and outlined intended uses: expand spay/neuter services, operate mobile sterilization clinics, support food‑bank partnerships and cover medical care and behavioral enrichment programs for sheltered animals. Sergio, an Animal Services representative, said the funds will enable program expansion and clarified the money is restricted to program use.

County staff emphasized the gift is not intended for routine daily operations. In presenting next steps, staff suggested options such as dedicating part of the funds to program expansions (mobile services, pet pantry partnerships) and exploring whether parts of the donation might be used to name a facility or program in honor of the donor.

Ending: Commissioners approved acceptance of the bequest and asked staff to return with recommended program plans and any naming proposals.