Ashe County approves site-planning contract to move proposed animal shelter forward

Ashe County commissioners on Tuesday approved a contract with engineering firm Withers Ravenel to perform site development work for a proposed animal shelter and moved budget lines to cover the cost.

County staffer Nick told the board the contract covers a desktop wetlands and stream assessment required for a West Jefferson special-use permit, a boundary and topographic survey, a ground-penetrating-radar utility assessment, preliminary engineering and a conceptual site layout. "This will get us all the information we need for the special-use permit," Nick said.

Commissioners asked questions about whether existing residential water and sewer service would meet the shelter’s needs. Nick said the study will identify required pipe diameters and whether a commercial meter and larger service lines will be necessary, and that engineers will coordinate with the town of West Jefferson on crossing or extending sewer and water infrastructure.

The county approved the contract and then voted to reallocate existing appropriations within the Department of Public Buildings to provide the funds. County staff emphasized the action moves already‑approved funds between lines rather than authorizing new county revenue. The appropriation increases the department’s budgeted total to $4,324,063.28, funded by a transfer from another department line.

The county said Withers Ravenel will begin due diligence once given notice to proceed; staff expect on-site work to be possible in spring and to complete deliverables by May so budget figures can be considered in the annual cycle.