Grand Island City Council finalizes three-year animal control contract with humane society

The Grand Island City Council convened on August 19, 2025, to discuss a significant new contract with the local humane society, aimed at improving animal control and sheltering services in the community. This three-year agreement, which is set to replace the previous arrangement where the humane society managed both animal control and sheltering, will now see the police department taking over animal control responsibilities.

The contract stipulates an initial payment of $30,000 for the first year, with a per diem charge of $45 for each animal sheltered for up to three days. This arrangement allows the city to manage the costs associated with animal intake while ensuring that animals are cared for during their stay. The humane society will continue to handle the sheltering aspect, focusing on finding homes for animals rather than euthanizing them, which aligns with their mission to promote animal welfare.

Key changes in the contract include a distinction between "drop-offs" and "surrenders," which will help manage the number of animals the city is responsible for. The police department will now log animals brought in from the streets, while scheduled surrenders will be managed based on available space. This differentiation aims to streamline operations and reduce the burden on city resources.

Council members raised questions about the financial implications of this transition, particularly regarding the costs associated with hiring new animal control officers and the need for vehicles to transport animals. The police department plans to establish a dedicated team of community service officers to handle animal control duties, which will provide a more structured approach to managing animal-related issues in Grand Island.

The council also discussed the importance of regular reporting on animal control activities, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in the new arrangement. Monthly reports will be made available to ensure that council members and the public are informed about the number of animals handled and the overall effectiveness of the program.

As the city moves forward with this new contract, officials expressed optimism about the potential for improved animal care and community engagement. The collaboration between the police department and the humane society is expected to enhance the quality of services provided to residents and their pets, ultimately fostering a safer and more compassionate environment for all.