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Akron City Council approves $2.9 million Summit County animal-control agreement amid concerns about fewer kennels and oversight
Summary
The council voted 9–4 to authorize a two-year intergovernmental agreement with Summit County for animal-control services from Jan. 1, 2026, through Dec. 31, 2027, with two renewal options; critics said the contract increases cost while reducing kennel capacity and lacks audit provisions.
Akron City Council on Monday approved an ordinance authorizing the mayor or his designee to execute an intergovernmental agreement with Summit County for animal-control services covering Jan. 1, 2026, through Dec. 31, 2027, with two options to renew for additional two-year terms. The measure passed on a roll call vote, 9–4.
Councilman Phil Lombardo, speaking in committee debate, said the city previously paid “less than $100,000” for comparable services and raised alarm at what he described as a leap to roughly $2.9 million over two years. “To increase it by that much and for it to be less kennels, that would … concerns me,” Lombardo said, noting the contract would result in 20 fewer kennels beginning in November and urging that the city add audit language and reporting requirements.
Councilman Kramer joined the opposition, citing similar concerns about oversight and the absence of an educational component. Both voted “nay” during the roll call.
Councilman Bolden, who supported the ordinance, said the contract prevents an immediate gap in services. He noted that without an agreement, county partners could decline to accept animals and the city could be left without a shelter. Mayor Mallick’s administration told council members the contract seeks a balance between city and county needs and that additional steps — including a county-wide request for proposals for overflow facilities, with submissions due June 15 — are part of the broader solution.
The ordinance reading specifies the contract term and emergency declaration. During debate, administration representatives stressed Summit County remains a close government partner for services such as jail operations, water and sewer and animal control.
Roll call votes recorded during the motion: Councilman Bolden (Yes); Councilman Boyce (Yes); Councilwoman Connor (Yes); Councilman Davis (Yes); Councilman Garrett (Yes); Councilmember Beer (No); Councilmember Hena (No); Councilman Kramer (No); Councilman Lombardo (No); Councilman McKetrick (Yes); Councilmember Amobian (Yes); Council President Somerville (Yes); Councilperson Wilson (Yes). The motion passed 9 to 4.
Council members who opposed the measure requested follow-up language requiring audits or periodic reports and asked for information from the Akron Police Department about prior instances in which the county shelter declined to accept animals. Supporters said the contract is necessary to prevent disruption of services while the city pursues RFPs for overflow capacity.
The council placed related new legislation on the docket and moved to other items after the vote. The ordinance takes effect consistent with the declared emergency and the dates listed in the contract language.
