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Okaloosa County approves one-year contract with PAWS as commissioners plan county-run animal services
Summary
Facing PAWS’ financial uncertainty, the Okaloosa County Commission approved a one-year contract to maintain animal-control services while staff studies options to create a county-run service and shelter.
The Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners on Aug. 19 approved a one-year contract with Panhandle Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) to maintain animal-control operations while county staff develops plans for a county-run service and shelter.
County Director of Public Safety Pat Maddox told commissioners PAWS declined a potential one‑year renewal of its prior agreement and would accept a one‑year “stop‑gap” contract at $824,018 annually ($68,668 per month) based on a $6.50 per‑capita rate the nonprofit said it could sustain. Maddox said PAWS reserved the right to terminate the new contract if it experienced financial collapse. “They have cited some financial difficulties in not being able to operate within the existing contract levels,” Maddox said.
The board’s action gives the county time to evaluate options for providing animal control and sheltering. Maddox said staff is examining land and building options and will present budget and implementation proposals to the commission. “We are looking at available options for land, for buildings,” he said. “All options are on the table.”
Commissioners discussed whether the county should operate only field animal‑control officers while contracting shelter operations, or build a facility that handles both functions. County administrator and public‑safety staff told the board they are evaluating mixed models, including using existing municipal resources, jail work programs for some shelter tasks and partnerships with local nonprofits.
Commissioner Ketchal (district representative) said the county should aim to run “a first‑rate facility” if it brings shelter operations in house. Several commissioners noted municipalities are making interim arrangements: Destin contracted emergency services with Walton County, Crestview started its own program, and other cities remain in flux.
The board approved the one‑year contract and authorized the county administrator to finalize a non‑dollar, de‑minimis change if necessary. Commissioners voted unanimously.
Ending: County staff said they will return with a detailed plan and budget for a long‑term structure for animal control and sheltering. Meanwhile, the one‑year contract aims to preserve continuity of services for residents and municipalities that rely on PAWS.
