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SOS Pets asks Monroe to consider funding for $5 million animal shelter
Summary
Joan Hampton of SOS Pets of Ouachita told the Monroe City Council the nonprofit has raised more than $1 million toward a new Monroe shelter estimated at $5 million, and requested city financial support comparable to West Monroe’s prior $30,000 contribution. The council referred the request to Mayor Ellis for follow-up.
Joan Hampton, president of SOS Pets of Ouachita, told the Monroe City Council on June 9 that her nonprofit has raised more than $1 million toward construction of a new animal shelter in Monroe to replace the existing West Monroe facility. She said the planned shelter will include about 100 kennels, climate-controlled housing and future space for a spay/neuter surgical room and outdoor play area, and that the project is estimated to cost $5 million.
"The nonprofit, established in 2017, has raised more than $1 million through donations, charitable gaming funds, and public support," Hampton told the council and requested the City of Monroe consider financial support comparable to West Monroe’s previous $30,000 contribution.
Councilmember Muhammad asked whether the mayors of Sterlington, West Monroe and Richwood had agreed to participate in the initiative; Hampton confirmed they had. Chairman Rodney McFarland said the council would refer the matter to Mayor George Ellis for additional handling. Mayor Ellis told the council discussions had already begun and that he would assume responsibility for leading further coordination with partner municipalities and stakeholders.
The council did not take a formal vote on direct funding at the June 9 meeting; the item was referred to the mayor’s office for follow-up, which may include meetings with neighboring mayors and a future council agenda item if city financial participation is proposed.
