New $1.45M Agreement with Humane Society Approved Amid Controversy

In a decisive move, the Lake Havasu City Council approved a five-year contract with the Western Arizona Humane Society, voting 5-2 on Tuesday. This agreement, effective October 1, comes amid discussions about the financial implications of housing and caring for animals from the city’s animal control program.

The Lake Havasu City Police Department oversees animal control duties and partners with the Western Arizona Humane Society for sheltering services. Under the new contract, the city commits to $250,000 for the first fiscal year, and $300,000 annually for the subsequent four years. The humane society will keep all impound and boarding fees, a shift from previous agreements.

Senior Animal Control Officer Chris Lutgen highlighted that for fiscal year 2023-24, those fees reached $13,327, based on a $29 daily boarding charge and an equivalent impound fee, both outlined in the city’s fee schedule. The humane society must provide quarterly reports, enable post-hours access for impounded animals, and facilitate necessary veterinary care at their expense.

During the current fiscal year, animal control brought in 287 animals. Once at the shelter, these animals undergo vaccinations, medical examinations, and may require further treatment by the shelter veterinarian. However, Executive Director Patty Gillmore noted that these figures exclude animals handed over by the public, who often opt to bypass the wait for animal control assistance.

Gillmore emphasized the humane society’s obligation to sterilize and vaccinate animals before adoption, adding that operational costs continue to rise as more animals are received. Some council members expressed concerns over the city’s financial commitment, insisting it should only fund the animals specifically brought in by city services. This disagreement has been a longstanding issue between the city and the humane society.

Councilmember David Lane shared budgetary concerns while assuring continued support for the humane society. He and Councilmember Michele Lin cast the votes against the contract. In contrast, Councilmember Nancy Campbell argued for the necessity of a shelter, stating, “I don’t think we could do this service as well as you guys do for $300,000 a year.”

Mayor Cal Sheehy echoed this sentiment, reinforcing the importance of shelter services in managing strays and preventing broader community issues. He highlighted taxpayer responsibility, stating, “We have to do something with these animals, and it falls on the taxpayers.”

Lutgen remarked on the essential role of shelters in addressing community animal welfare, declaring, “In an ideal world, we wouldn’t need an animal shelter.” This new contract replaces one that has been in place since June 2019, which had previously encountered criticism but was renewed after a council vote at that time.