The Bernalillo County commission authorized the county manager to execute a letter of intent to acquire 9901 Montgomery Boulevard NE — a 23,427‑square‑foot former veterinary clinic on 1.77 acres — to establish an off‑site animal adoption center intended to expand Burnco Animal Care’s public access and adoption capacity.

Real estate staff presented the market and repair analysis: the property listed at $4.8 million was the subject of a negotiated offer at $3.2 million; the seller has agreed to replace the roof and HVAC (estimated at ~$1 million) and obtain permits and inspections before closing. Staff said comparable replacement or new construction costs for a similarly sized facility exceed the purchase price, making the acquisition cost‑effective if due diligence confirms no hidden structural problems.

Animal Care Director Misha Goodman described why the county needs additional adoption capacity. She said the current shelter was designed for about 2,500 annual intakes but is on track to receive more than 7,000 animals this calendar year. "Owner relinquishments have increased 69% in the last year," Goodman said; she added that lack of space has forced euthanasia of otherwise adoptable animals and that the psychological toll on staff has been significant.

County staff noted the site’s strengths: prior veterinary use that eases conversion, high street visibility on Montgomery in a dense service area (roughly 128,000 residents within three miles), transit access, and the potential for co‑located services such as grooming, training and behavioral modification classrooms. Real estate and facilities staff said additional outfitting — IT, security and furnishings — would require an estimated $400,000 and be presented to the commission for separate appropriation.

Commissioners voted to authorize the LOI and financial resolution; final purchase will follow due diligence, appraisal and closing. The county manager said staff will continue rigorous inspections and will return if additional funds beyond the LOI and planned outfitting are required.

The county and animal‑care staff argued the new site will increase adoptions by placing animals in a higher‑traffic, more visible location and will relieve capacity constraints at the primary shelter.