Humane Society of the Black Hills requests $166K from Pennington County for animal services

During the recent Pennington County Board of Commissioners meeting, the Humane Society of the Black Hills presented a funding request of $166,000, highlighting the critical role it plays as the only open shelter in the region. Executive Director Tammy Barrows explained that the shelter takes in approximately 4,000 animals annually, with a significant portion coming from local law enforcement agencies. The request marks a substantial increase from last year's funding of $108,000, which was itself a jump from $50,000 the previous year.

The discussion revealed a complex history between the Humane Society and the county, particularly regarding funding and operational transparency. Sheriff Bridal Mueller noted that previous agreements had not been adequately tracked, leading to disputes over the justification for funding increases. He emphasized the need for better oversight and suggested that a county commissioner should sit on the Humane Society's board to enhance collaboration and accountability.

Barrows defended the shelter's no-kill policy, stating that they only euthanize animals for behavioral or health issues, not due to space constraints. She also mentioned efforts to diversify funding sources, including a new membership program aimed at reducing reliance on county funds.

The board expressed concerns about the rising costs associated with the shelter's operations and the lack of detailed financial reporting. Commissioners discussed the potential for cost-saving measures and the importance of ensuring that taxpayer money is used effectively. The meeting concluded with a commitment to further dialogue and a request for more detailed financial information from the Humane Society.

In addition to the Humane Society discussions, the board briefly addressed the Meals on Wheels program, emphasizing its importance to the community's seniors. However, tensions arose over a recent Facebook post that inaccurately suggested the county was planning to cut funding for the program. Commissioners clarified that they were not responsible for kitchen space or funding cuts, reiterating the need for transparency and accurate communication regarding county services.

Overall, the meeting underscored the ongoing challenges of funding essential community services while ensuring accountability and effective use of taxpayer dollars. The board's commitment to increased oversight and collaboration with organizations like the Humane Society and Meals on Wheels reflects a proactive approach to addressing these issues moving forward.