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Council hears higher animal-control costs, explores TNR and alternatives to curb Michigan Humane Society bill
Summary
City officials told council the Michigan Humane Society contract will cost the general fund $9,600/month in 2026 and rise to about $14,000/month in 2027; staff said they are pursuing alternatives, including Trap‑Neuter‑Release (TNR) and negotiation, to reduce intake and general‑fund exposure.
The Jubal Heights council heard detailed budget figures and operational notes for the ordinance department’s animal-control services Tuesday, including a sharp expected increase in contract costs with the Michigan Humane Society.
Director Ysef Nalla told the council the city’s contracted animal‑care services are budgeted at $144,000 for the coming period, which he broke down as $9,600 per month for calendar 2026 and an expected increase to roughly $14,000 per month beginning in 2027. “Michigan Humane Society does provide a full scope service ... for animals,” Nalla said, describing the contract as a comprehensive, all‑species arrangement.
Nalla said the cost is not covered by a dedicated millage and therefore comes directly from the general fund, prompting questions about alternatives. He said staff have met with the humane society repeatedly to negotiate and are exploring service reductions and community programs to limit intake and costs.
Council members pressed for specifics about what could be removed from the service package and asked whether removing certain wildlife or limiting acceptance of unowned animals would reduce the price. Staff and councilors agreed that removing wildlife categories would not materially lower costs; the primary pressure point is feline intake, where Trap‑Neuter‑Release (TNR) programs could reduce long‑term shelter admissions. “The cats—that’s what generates a lot ... the costs,” one participant said during the discussion of TNR as a longer‑term program rather than an immediate fix.
Officials said any change would require coordinated outreach and an ongoing TNR access point for residents; they emphasized the measure would be gradual and would not eliminate short‑term contract expense. Nalla said the administration will continue to pursue alternatives and report back when concrete savings options or contract amendments are available.
The council did not take a final vote on animal‑control policy during the session; staff committed to follow up on contract negotiation outcomes and possible cost‑reducing programs, including TNR and public education.
