Council approves county animal-control IGA amid concerns about shelter services

Hood River — After an extended debate, the Hood River City Council voted Aug. 10 to authorize the mayor to sign an intergovernmental agreement (IGA) with the county that formalizes the city’s share of animal-control services.

Staff described the IGA as a predictable, five‑year cost schedule intended to replace a usage-based formula and to improve budgeting accuracy. The agreement includes reporting requirements and a “catch-up” payment for the first year, and it allows the county to provide shelter services either directly or through a subcontractor. “The way the contract is written here, the county shall satisfy its shelter obligations either through a contracted service provider or by directly operating the shelter,” staff said during the discussion.

Multiple councilors pressed staff about how much of the city’s payment actually funds direct enforcement versus shelter care, noting that the shelter services have historically been provided by a third party (Hood River Adopt A Dog) and that financing for that operation (the Hikari fund) has become uncertain. One councilor said: “I would not approve this particular contract without the shelter services piece being in there for sure.” Council members sought data and an exhibit showing the breakdown of services and suggested asking the county for performance metrics and a current shelter-services contract.

Supporters of the IGA said the agreement gives the city remedies if shelter services fall short, including a 15‑day for‑cause termination and a 90‑day convenience termination, and allows the city to provide financial support to third‑party animal-care providers if necessary. The motion to authorize the mayor to sign the IGA passed; the minutes record one opposing vote from Councilor Cavallari.

What’s next: Staff will request a clearer breakdown and annual reports from the county showing how city funds are used and will track whether the county’s shelter arrangements meet community expectations. The IGA’s termination and reporting provisions will be the mechanisms the council identified for future action if service quality declines.