Commission approves conditional use permit for Pet Haven’s proposed cat shelter at 3202 12th Ave

The Nampa Planning and Zoning Commission on May 13 approved a conditional use permit for Pet Haven Inc., a nonprofit cat shelter, to operate an animal shelter and related services at 3202 Twelfth Avenue Road in a BC (Community Business) zone.

The commission’s vote, moved by Commissioner Kirkman and seconded by Commissioner Kehoe, followed testimony from Pet Haven board members about capacity and services and multiple public comments raising concerns that approval could displace an existing daycare tenant at the building and leave its families without local childcare.

Nancy Smith, president of Pet Haven, said the group — a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 1972 that rescues, rehabilitates and adopts cats — needs a larger facility than its current site at 333 West Orchard. She told the commission the proposed site would allow more space for animals and room for volunteers and parking; she estimated the new facility could shelter “a hundred or less” animals depending on square footage and said the organization last year adopted more than 660 cats.

Alfred Koenig, Pet Haven vice president, and other board volunteers described the organization’s longtime community services, including support for a spay/neuter clinic and care for feral and stray cats. Pet Haven representatives said they negotiated with the listing agent after the building became available and that the organization’s fundraising enabled the purchase offer.

Several members of the public urged denial. Speakers identified themselves as parents and daycare staff with TLC Daycare, which has operated at the site for about 17 years, and said they face potential displacement if the property sells. Commenters said the daycare serves roughly 47 children and that losing the facility would harm lower‑income families who rely on its services. Commissioners and staff clarified that decisions about tenant leases and property sale are private matters between owners and tenants and that the commission must decide whether the proposed animal shelter meets land‑use standards.

City staff recommended approval with conditions including compliance with building codes and ventilation requirements, keeping animal areas sanitary and disposing of waste properly, and remedying existing code compliance issues such as weeds on the property. Staff also noted the permit is subject to city building and change‑of‑occupancy requirements.

The commission approved the conditional use permit. Planning staff advised the decision becomes effective 15 calendar days after the written decision is issued unless an appeal is filed; the applicant must confirm with planning staff that no appeals were filed before taking action under the permit.