Commission approves animal-care contracts, reports 58 adoptions and moves to inform public on proposed animal-care tax

Ashley Young presented Animal Care items during the Oct. 29 Davis County Commission meeting, asking the commission to approve a standard service-provider contract with Dr. Ali Weber for veterinary services at $90 per hour (Oct. 20, 2024—Apr. 20, 2025), adoption agreements for September 2024, and a summary list of donations totaling $1,091.45. Young reported 58 adoptions for September—13 cats, 39 dogs and six other animals (including a ferret and a litter of guinea pigs). Commissioners moved, seconded and voted unanimously to approve items 1—3.

The auditor—s budget presentation also highlighted Fund 13 (animal care), which was established in 2023 following state legislation to allow a property tax levy for animal welfare services. The tentative budget includes a proposed notice of intent to increase property taxes for Fund 13 not to exceed $1,507,804; the auditor said the increase equates to a 59.91% rise in taxes collected for Fund 13. Public open houses and a public hearing on the proposed increase were listed in the auditor—s presentation for November dates at multiple library locations and the commission chambers. The auditor encouraged residents with questions to attend the open houses to learn about animal-control operations and provide input.

Commissioners and staff also discussed planning and funding for a new animal shelter (budgeted at $16.5 million) to serve the approximately 4,500 animals Animal Care handles annually. The commission approved related budget amendments tied to fund transfers that affect animal-care funding as part of the broader tentative budget filing.