Helena council approves $5,000 contract to fund spay-neuter clinic for strays

The Helena/West Helena City Council unanimously approved a motion to authorize the mayor to enter a contract for up to $5,000 to pay for spay-and-neuter services through a local nonprofit. The request came after Miss Paula Oliver, identified as president of Delta Dog, told the council the group has treated six cats and 25 dogs this year and wants to shift focus to sterilization to reduce the stray population.

Delta Dog volunteer Miss Allen said the per-animal cost for spay/neuter plus rabies vaccination is about $130, and coupons from the BISSELL Pet Foundation reduce the cost by roughly $60. Using the existing $5,000 line in the city’s animal-control and medical-care budget, she told the council the nonprofit could treat about 83 animals.

Miss Harris moved to authorize the contract; an unidentified council member seconded. The city attorney advised that the city cannot make a donation but may enter a contract to pay for services the city otherwise would provide. The city attorney said staff would draft a contract authorizing the mayor to sign for up to $5,000 through the end of the year. The roll call vote recorded five yes votes and the measure passed.

Council members emphasized the arrangement would be a contract for services rather than a donation and noted the city’s policy for contracting. The contract will be limited through the end of the calendar year unless the council takes further action.

The council did not specify vendor payment terms or a schedule for services; staff said the city attorney would prepare a contract and that terms would be negotiated consistent with city procurement rules.