Dearborn County Animal Shelter Paws Requests Funding Increase to Maintain Operations

The Dearborn County Council held a budget hearing on August 5, 2025, focusing on funding requests from local organizations, including the PAWS animal shelter. The meeting highlighted the shelter's efforts to manage expenses and increase revenue while facing significant budget constraints due to recent legislative changes affecting property tax revenues.

During the hearing, representatives from PAWS presented their case for a 20% increase in monthly funding, requesting an increase from $13.07 to $16.05 per month starting in 2026. They emphasized their commitment to responsible animal care and outlined their fundraising successes, which included raising over $110,000 in 2024 through various events, all supported by dedicated volunteers contributing more than 10,000 hours of service.

The council members acknowledged the shelter's achievements but expressed concerns about the county's financial situation. A recent analysis indicated a projected loss of $900,000 in property tax revenue for 2026, complicating budget planning for all county departments. Council members noted that while they appreciated the shelter's work, they might only be able to offer a modest 3% increase in funding due to these financial constraints.

The discussion also touched on the shelter's strategies to reduce costs, including controlling payroll expenses and utilizing a local veterinarian for spay and neuter services, which has significantly lowered medical costs. PAWS representatives explained that additional funding sources include donations, bequests, and adoption fees, which help sustain their operations.

As the council prepares to finalize its budget, the future of PAWS' funding remains uncertain, with council members indicating they would need to assess their overall budget situation before making any commitments. The council plans to provide updates on funding decisions by the end of the week, as they navigate one of the most challenging budget years in recent memory.