County signs short-term animal-control boarding agreement as local shelters near capacity

LaSalle County approved an agreement on July 10 to provide boarding services for animal-control cases beginning July 10, 2025, as the county and municipalities continue to seek a longer-term animal shelter solution. County officials said local partner organizations, including a private shelter identified in the meeting transcript as Ivar, are at capacity. County board members discussed previous arrangements (including use of the Ottawa Veterinary Clinic and a private facility that has historically housed county animals) and ARP funding previously provided for kennel upgrades. The contract before the board was described as a temporary fix; section language presented at the meeting allows either party to terminate on 30 days’ notice. Why it matters: The county’s animal-control program needs temporary boarding capacity to manage seized or stray animals; officials said they are coordinating with the city of Ottawa and other partners to develop longer-term solutions and noted meetings were planned to discuss the issue. Vote and implementation The board approved the agreement on a roll-call vote with all present voting in favor. County officials said the agreement’s start date will be recorded as July 10, 2025, and that the county will continue to coordinate with Ottawa and other stakeholders on shelter capacity and potential facility development. Discussion-only items and clarifications Board members referenced prior ARP support for kennel improvements and noted some private providers currently offering overflow capacity. County staff said further meetings with the city are expected; the board did not vote on additional funding at the July 10 meeting.