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Fenton board flags contract disputes with Broome County Humane Society over emergency veterinary care
Summary
The Town discussed a proposed contract with the Broome County Humane Society (BCHS), which is assuming the county dog shelter. The BCHS declined a proposed provision requiring it to provide emergency veterinary care for injured strays; the board said meeting to resolve language may be needed.
Town Attorney Richard H. Miller, III and Supervisor David Gunster told the board that the Broome County Humane Society (BCHS) is assuming operation of the Broome County Dog Shelter and has submitted a proposed contract for Town services.
Town officials requested that BCHS include a provision to provide emergency veterinary care for injured stray dogs brought in by the Town or the Dog Control Officer (DCO). According to the discussion in the meeting, BCHS opposed adding that provision and expressed a preference that the Town’s DCO find emergency veterinary care when needed. Town Attorney Miller advised that representatives may need to meet with BCHS to resolve the parties’ differing positions and the contract language.
Supervisor Gunster and the Board expressed concern that requiring the Town to locate emergency veterinary care could be costly and burdensome to the Town if added to the contract. Attorney Miller said service continuity should not be interrupted as the matter is negotiated.
What happens next: Town staff and counsel expect further meetings with BCHS to negotiate the contract language. The Board did not adopt a final contract at this meeting.
