Bayou Animal Services asks council for staffing help, outlines county partnership talks

Nina Baker (S9), director of Bayou Animal Services, told council the shelter is frequently near capacity and that the department handled about 965 animals last year. She said current capacity sits around 50 dogs and 40 cats and that foster homes and a STAR fundraising program have helped cover veterinary costs. "For the year last year, we were at 965 animals in," Baker said.

Baker described ongoing talks to provide animal control services to neighboring municipalities on a contract basis, potentially bringing the city revenue while partnering with a 501(c)(3) to manage shelter housing and adoptions. She asked council for one additional full‑time shelter manager, estimating an all‑in cost (salary plus benefits) in the $55,000–$65,000 range.

Council members suggested the nonprofit partner could help offset certain operating costs but cautioned that the city should not rely on donations to fund recurring municipal positions. Baker said Bayou Animal Services has leveraged community support for capital improvements (HVAC, sunshades, generator) and proposed using donated funds to offset specific line items such as food or training rather than base salaries unless the council makes a policy decision to include the position permanently.