County staff outline planned improvements to Morrow County dog shelter: gates, heating and insulation

County staff told the Morrow County Board of Commissioners on Jan. 6 that planned improvements to the county dog shelter will include installation of gates, a new heat and air handler in a garage area and additional insulation so the facility can temporarily house more animals in cold weather.

A county staff member identified as Mr. Burke said contractors have submitted proposals and that staff are reviewing options to ensure the work meets county maintenance standards. "There's some gates coming to the dog shelter, to make some improvements to the facility so that they can organize more of those spaces out there," Burke said. He said the work includes adding a heat and air handler in the garage area and extra insulation, and that the county hopes to have the project secured and moving forward by the end of the month.

Why it matters: The improvements are intended to allow the shelter to temporarily house additional animals in heated, insulated space during periods of high intake. Commissioners asked staff to ensure the chosen solution meets county maintenance and safety standards.

Details and next steps: • Work items described: gates at the shelter, adding a heat and air handler in a garage area, and adding insulation. • Procurement/status: Contractors have provided proposals and staff are close to deciding; staff will provide files and recommendations to lead staffer Sabrina, who is coordinating the project. • Timing: Staff said they hope to have the work secured by the end of the month; no construction contract was approved at the Jan. 6 meeting.

Ending: Staff will return with contractor recommendations and specifications; commissioners did not vote to authorize construction at this session.