After an extended public-comment period in which dozens of volunteers and animal-services advocates urged action, the Citrus County Board of County Commissioners voted 4–1 to accept an $800,000 pledge from the ASPCA to support a new county animal services facility.

Volunteers, nonprofit leaders and frequent shelter advocates described the current building as outdated and unsafe and urged the board to accept the national organization’s pledge so the county can move forward with bids and final design. Speakers including Karen Hannah and Wanda Moke said the pledge is a national endorsement and will allow needed add-on features and life-safety improvements.

Commissioners debated the merits of accepting a restricted grant. Commissioner Barrick cautioned that the ASPCA pledge comes with conditions that restrict how the money can be used and noted $800,000 could represent only about 4% of the total projected building cost. Commissioners supporting the acceptance said $800,000 is a substantial contribution that can cover required add-ons and that the board can determine next steps when bids are received.

The board approved accepting the pledge and directed staff to proceed with the procurement steps that will determine final scope and whether bids match budget estimates. Commissioners said they will revisit scope and award decisions if bids exceed estimates.

Why it matters: County leaders and volunteers described repeated delays to a replacement shelter over many years and said the donation is a rare funding opportunity. Opponents cautioned about long-term total costs, maintenance, and whether accepting conditional funds constrains local decision-making.

Vote and next steps: The board accepted the ASPCA pledge (recorded as motion carries 4–1) and will proceed toward bid solicitation; the final contract and award decisions will return to the commission once bids are received.

Representative transcript excerpt: “The pledge from the ASPCA is a national vote of confidence … your approval to execute this agreement will now demonstrate your vote of confidence as we take the next steps,” a volunteer told the commission.