Aurora City Council approves $51M financing for new animal shelter construction

In the heart of Aurora City Hall, city officials gathered on June 9, 2025, to discuss a pivotal project that promises to transform the community's approach to animal welfare. The focus of the meeting was the proposed construction of a new animal shelter, a much-needed upgrade from the outdated facility currently in use, which dates back to the 1980s.

Jessica Prosser, the director of housing and community services, presented an overview of the project, emphasizing the urgent need for a modern facility that complies with safety regulations and can accommodate a growing population of animals. The current shelter operates out of a repurposed evidence facility, which has limited capacity and poses challenges for both staff and animals. The new shelter is planned to span 38,000 square feet and house approximately 250 animals, featuring separate areas for adoptable pets and those under court hold, thereby enhancing the experience for visitors and reducing stress for the animals.

The proposed site for the new shelter is located on a 15-acre parcel owned by the city, just southeast of the existing facility. The design process is currently underway, with plans to finalize the layout and begin construction by 2026. The total estimated cost for the project is $51 million, with $27 million expected to be financed through Certificates of Participation (COPs), a form of lease-purchase financing.

City Treasurer Teresa Sedmack elaborated on the financing strategy, noting that the council would consider an ordinance to authorize the issuance of COPs at an upcoming meeting. The financing plan includes a maximum interest rate of 6% over a 30-year term, with the goal of securing funds by August.

Council members expressed interest in potential partnerships with surrounding jurisdictions to help fund the new shelter. Sedmack confirmed that discussions with Arapahoe County are set to begin, aiming to renegotiate an outdated intergovernmental agreement that currently provides limited financial support for animal care services.

As the meeting concluded, the council members acknowledged the importance of this project not only for the welfare of animals but also for the community's overall commitment to responsible pet ownership and public safety. With the groundwork laid for a new facility, Aurora is poised to enhance its animal services and create a more humane environment for its furry residents.