Henderson outlines shelter improvements, pledges diversion program as residents press for funding clarity

City officials detailed progress and planned renovations for Henderson’s Animal Protection Services (APS), saying operational changes and partnerships have reduced intakes and improved outcomes while a renovation plan moves toward final design.

Ian Massey, assistant director in Community Development and Services, told the council the department has taken a "data driven approach" during the first 10 months of the APS transition, citing lower owner surrenders and strays, more than 2,600 animals saved year‑to‑date, and more than 500 reunions with owners. He said the shelter’s live‑release metric is calculated using national ASPCA/Asilmar standards and that the city is projecting a live‑release rate above 90 percent.

Eddie Dichter, community development and services director, and administrator Danielle Harney outlined operational changes: scheduled admissions to reduce unplanned intakes, expanded transfer agreements with rescue partners, and new positions including part‑time veterinarian and administrative support to cover seven‑day operations. "We are committed to transparency," Dichter said, noting partnerships with NDSPCA, SPCA, Arts Alive Village and Best Friends among roughly 30–40 formal rescue partners.

Harney, APS administrator, described planned facility upgrades: separate isolation kennels each with independent air systems to limit disease spread; elevated concrete kennel platforms; separate dog and cat impound rooms; expanded medical and recovery space; and improved HVAC, laundry and administrative areas. "When we continue to see over 4,000 animals enter our shelter every year, it's really important that our shelter is fit and ready to go," Harney said.

City veterinarian Dr. Tessa Krombatter said a larger dedicated medical and recovery area will allow clinical work to proceed without constraining shelter operations.

Massey and Dichter said the city is partnering with consultant City Gate to document policies and procedures, and with Nevada SPCA on a summer shelter diversion program that will provide pet food, reduced‑cost veterinary support, behavior resources and training to families at risk of surrendering pets. "By helping families address challenges before surrendering a pet, we can often keep animals safely in their homes," Massey said.

Council members questioned coordination between APS and Henderson Police Department. A law enforcement representative said collaboration continues and that police expertise remains focused on investigations and court testimony, while APS handles shelter operations.

Public commenters pressed for clearer historical accounting of renovation funds. Melissa Tresati, a resident and volunteer, told the council she was "concerned" about delays and asked where in the $7,000,000 budget funds for the office building and shelter care are allocated. In response, a finance staff member clarified that $4.5 million was included in the FY25 budget and $2.5 million was added in FY26 and that "at no point since it's been in the budget has that been decreased."

Council members and staff said final construction plans were in pre‑construction and that city staff anticipate returning with finalized blueprints mid‑summer, with a goal of breaking ground later this year. Staff said the Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) will provide a construction schedule that will better define when new kennels and other priorities will be installed.

The presentation closed with staff asking for ongoing support for volunteers and rescue partners; council members thanked staff and volunteers for work during the transition. The council did not take any formal action beyond the presentation.