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Council hears $3.2M plan to overhaul Weatherford animal shelter, shifting from full demolition to phased remodel
Summary
Staff told council the $15M demolition/replace plan was replaced by a multi‑phase remodel that has already refurbished key kennel buildings and proposes a $3.2–$3.3M total project including new admin, separate cat adoption building and secure intake drive‑through.
Animal services staff described a revised, lower-cost approach to upgrading the city’s shelter that preserves and upgrades existing buildings rather than pursuing full demolition.
What changed: In 2024 staff presented a $15 million plan for full demolition and expanded capacity. At the retreat, staff reported a revised strategy built around targeted remodels and new focused buildings that meet current needs.
Work completed and planned Staff said kennel buildings (A–E) have been renovated with new epoxy flooring, gator kennels with view windows to reduce disease spread, improved HVAC including mini‑split systems, commercial dishwasher for feeding supplies and improved staff/volunteer workspaces. Staff also described phase-2 concepts that include demolishing an existing livestock barn to create a parking area, a dedicated dog-park, a new administration building (no animals inside), a separate cat adoption building to reduce stress for cats, and a secure drive-through (sally port) to protect intake operations.
Cost and schedule Staff estimated approximately $1.2M spent on the initial buildings and a $3.2–$3.3M total cost for the proposed remodel project rather than the earlier $15M demolition-and-rebuild concept. Council members asked staff to bring procurement details and continue refining the plan.
Why it matters Staff framed the project as preserving current capacity and improving animal-health outcomes at much lower cost. Staff also said recent renegotiation with the county ensures the county now pays its proportional share (about 70% of animals brought to the shelter) so the shelter budget is no longer subsidizing unincorporated county intake.
