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Hardy County officials outline dog‑pound improvements and a funding shortfall; commissioners discuss options
Summary
County coordinator reported facility upgrades, donations and a $20,000 private grant for the dog pound but warned dog‑tax revenue (~$7,944) does not cover a $15,000 contractor salary or veterinary expenses; commissioners discussed partnerships with the Humane Society and potential policy changes.
County Coordinator Wendy Branson delivered a detailed update on the Hardy County dog pound and told commissioners that recent donations and a private grant improved shelter conditions but that the operation continues to run a structural funding deficit.
Branson said the county used a $20,000 private grant (Friends of the Humane Society) plus county funds to make facility improvements — new roofing, an outdoor shelter and shelving — and to install heated water bowls anticipated to arrive soon. Still, she said dog‑tax receipts for the fiscal year to date total about $7,944 while the contractor’s annual salary is $15,000, leaving a material gap that county general revenues currently cover.
"The revenue does not even cover this the contractor's salary alone, resulting in a funding gap," Branson said, describing recent vet bills and emergency care costs that were paid from the general fund.
Commissioners and staff discussed enforcement of existing dog‑tax rules and cited state code avenues (fines and forfeiture of pet ownership) for abandoned animals, noting practical limits to collection and enforcement. The group also discussed the role of the regional Humane Society and the difficulty that organization faces finding and funding a shelter facility; commissioners asked staff to engage the Humane Society for a status report and 5‑year plan to identify whether the nonprofit can shoulder more responsibility and reduce county subsidization.
Public Information Officer Peggy Mimo and commissioners agreed to create targeted social media outreach urging residents to pay dog taxes and to highlight improvements and donation opportunities. Commissioners also acknowledged that expanding funding for animal services could require a dedicated revenue increase or greater private support.
Branson briefed the commission on dog‑pound operations: animals are checked at least twice daily, cameras monitor the facility, state law requires a minimum five‑day holding period and intake is driven by pickups and transfers rather than walk‑in donations. The county reported 11 pickups in January and 14 dogs in custody at the time of the report.
Commissioners directed staff to continue collaboration with the Humane Society, review funding options and report back with recommended next steps.
