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Cumru explores alternatives after ARL signals high per‑capita rates for animal control
Summary
Police chief Winchester said the Animal Rescue League (ARL) may not offer the township the service level the township needs at the per‑capita rates previously quoted; commissioners discussed alternatives including per‑service fees, using smaller providers, or seeking a middle‑tier contract where only PD can deliver animals under the agreement.
Chief Winchester told the board the township’s current contracted animal‑control provider will not be an option for 2026 and that he and lieutenant Besner met with the ARL director to explore service alternatives. Winchester said ARL described a spectrum of service levels — a high 'Cadillac' option and a low 'Yugo' option — and suggested the township needs something in the middle.
He noted past ARL proposals quoted $7–$7.50 per capita (applied to total assessed population), which would create a large annual cost relative to the low number of dogs the township typically needs ARL’s services for (about 8–10 animals per year). Winchester and other board members discussed alternatives: a per‑animal fee, contracting with Safety Net Sanctuary (which provided poor service previously), or a tailored agreement under which only the township police department could bring animals under the contract.
Commissioners asked administration to engage ARL’s board and seek a reasonable mid‑level proposal. Staff said they will pursue direct outreach to the ARL board and re‑examine cost options to avoid paying a high per‑capita fee for a service used infrequently by the township.
