Marion County commissioners are currently seeking a new facility for the Animal Services department.
On Monday, March 21, the Marion County Board of County Commissioners held a capital improvement project workshop. During this meeting, the commissioners discussed many projects that were proposed by county departments, including Marion County Animal Services.
Capital improvement projects include new construction, repair, or improvement of buildings or grounds.
Many operational needs were discussed for the Animal Services department, including urgent needs such as equipment and updated kennels. Long-term needs were also mentioned, including the need for facility upgrades.
After the commissioners discussed multiple options, they decided that a new facility would be more suitable to meet the current and future needs of the community.
A new location for Animal Services would allow for the possibility of increased green space areas for local shelter animals to enjoy. According to county staff, green space enhances the quality of life for the animals housed at the facility and makes them more adoptable.
Two possible locations for the new facility include an area near NE 36th Avenue and a site near Coehadjoe Park. During the workshop, the commissioners directed county staff to research the possibility of these two locations.
The findings of that research will be presented to the Marion County Board of County Commissioners during an upcoming publicly noticed meeting.