JASCOM review finds current animal shelter failing; new 20,000-square-foot facility estimated at $33M–$41.5M

Joint Animal Services commissioners heard detailed findings and a concept plan for a new regional animal shelter Thursday, after a multi‑year facilities study concluded the current Lacey facility is functionally failing and undersized.

The presentation, led by Joint Animal Services staff and consultants from Animal Arts and the City of Lacey, said an updated facilities condition assessment identified immediate repairs of roughly $684,000 (2025 dollars) and near‑term repairs approaching $937,000. Consultants presented a refined concept for a one‑story, roughly 19,000–20,000 square‑foot shelter with an attached veterinary clinic option, site layouts, and a budget range of about $33 million to $41.5 million depending on site work and whether a veterinary clinic is included.

Why it matters: Commissioners were told continuing to operate in the current 8,000‑square‑foot building will increase costs over time and consume reserves that could be used for construction. The decision affects operations, standards of care and long‑term capital needs for the four jurisdictions that fund JASCOM.

Joint Animal Services Executive Director Sarah Hawk summarized the assessment and the building‑condition history, telling commissioners…