Chino Hills Council weighs partnership with San Gabriel Humane Society and animal control services

Concerns over animal control services took center stage at the Chino Hills City Council meeting on March 25, 2025, as council members voiced apprehensions regarding the recent merger involving the Inland Valley Humane Society (IVHS) and the San Gabriel Humane Society. The discussions highlighted the potential impacts on local animal control services and the need for clearer communication between the city and its service providers.

City Manager Nicole D. addressed the council, assuring them that the IVHS had provided assurances that the merger would not negatively affect service levels in Chino Hills. However, council members expressed skepticism, noting that the departure of several agencies could lead to increased costs and reduced service quality. "We want to ensure that we won't bear any costs for people who are idle or not part of the day-to-day operations," said one council member, emphasizing the need for accountability.

Communication emerged as a recurring theme, with council members lamenting the lack of detailed reports on animal intake and adoption rates. "We used to get monthly reports, but that seems to have fallen by the wayside," one member noted, calling for more transparency and collaboration in promoting animal adoption services.

The proposed new Joint Powers Authority (JPA) for animal control raised additional concerns. Council members worried about the long-term commitment and the potential loss of control over resources, particularly regarding capital investments like vehicles and equipment. "I don't want to pay for something and then hear from them that another city is using it," one member cautioned.

Despite these concerns, there was a sense of optimism about the potential for improved representation in the new structure. Council members discussed the idea of having a single board seat representing multiple cities to ensure that Chino Hills' interests are adequately voiced.

As the council deliberated, it became clear that while the merger presents opportunities for collaboration, it also necessitates careful consideration of service expectations and financial implications. The council agreed to continue discussions on the matter, aiming to clarify the future of animal control services in Chino Hills and ensure that residents receive the quality care they deserve.