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Residents press Trumbull County commissioners for new dog‑pound facility; county says $3.8M estimate under review
Summary
Multiple residents and county officials discussed architectural plans and a financing strategy for a proposed new Trumbull County animal shelter during public comment; commissioners said the county has drawings, an offered site and a preliminary cost estimate but has not identified funding.
Public comment at the Trumbull County Board of Commissioners’ Jan. 29 meeting centered on plans for a new county dog‑pound facility, with residents and animal‑welfare volunteers urging commissioners to move forward and county officials describing the current financing questions.
Hugo Scarnecchiam, president of Mosquito Lake Dog Park in Niles, said volunteers and local trainers have been supporting the county’s animal control operation and requested the commissioners’ help in obtaining a new facility. Commissioners responded that the county has architectural drawings and property offered by the AWL in Vienna Township, but that financing remains unresolved.
Commissioners said a recent assessment estimated the project would cost nearly $3,800,000. They said the county is exploring options including major donors and loans and would hold further meetings with stakeholders; they also listed the dog‑pound project among three capital priorities that include 9‑1‑1 and the coroner’s office. Planning and facilities staff showed renderings during the meeting and described an internal layout that had been expanded in design from 30 kennels to 50 and that includes a quiet room to reduce animal stress.
Residents who commented urged the county to proceed without adding a long-term staffing burden and suggested donor naming rights and loan financing to show commitment and attract contributions. One resident said a well‑designed quiet room helps reduce stress hormones in dogs and improves adoptability.
Ending
County officials said the project is a priority but that timing depends on securing funding; commissioners said they will continue outreach to potential donors and consider financing strategies while coordinating follow-up briefings with interested stakeholders.
