Residents and supervisors press for animal shelter support; board discusses donations, space and equipment needs

Multiple residents urged the Board of Supervisors on Aug. 25 to increase support for the Cumberland County Animal Shelter, which speakers said is short-staffed and in need of equipment and space. Gina Martin, who said she is working with the shelter on fundraising and volunteer support, asked the county to help identify grants and to consider reusing equipment from a recently closed facility. She said the shelter needs additional kennels and about $50,000to60,000 for fencing and facility improvements; she also offered to help coordinate banners and community fundraising. Board members and staff said the shelter passed its most recent state inspection and noted the shelter has been designated a no-kill facility; supervisors said that success has increased intake and stressed the need for expanded capacity. County staff said the maintenance shop has a donated tool shed that could be repurposed as an adoption or “quiet” room and that staff will explore that option. Supervisors and staff encouraged citizens to volunteer and donate; staff said they will research grants and potential contractor donations to address fencing and equipment needs and will meet with volunteers and rescue partners to coordinate support. No new county appropriation was approved at the meeting.