Commission approves joint‑powers agreement path for K9 'Ares' after dispute over custody and trailer

The Benson County Commission voted to pursue a joint‑powers agreement that would allow Nelson County to assume custody of the county K9 known as Ares, after rounds of public comment and legal discussion about bids, care and a trailer of the dog's property.

County legal counsel recommended the joint‑powers approach as an alternative to a competitive sale, telling commissioners: "My recommendation here to your county commission, Mr. Chairman, is that we enter into a joint powers agreement that allows the sharing of assets between political subdivisions." The recommendation followed public remarks from an attorney representing a private owner, who said "my client would be happy to work with BCI" to arrange transfer of a trailer and its contents that belonged to the canine.

Commissioners debated interim custody arrangements, veterinary care reports and whether a formal sale was appropriate. Staff agreed to arrange for the trailer to be towed to a secure evidence location and inventoried with counsel and the dog's owner present. The motion to pursue the joint‑powers agreement was seconded and carried by voice vote; the board directed counsel and staff to negotiate the final agreement and report back.

The vote does not yet transfer ownership; it authorizes staff to negotiate terms and prepare the joint‑powers document for final approval. Commissioners also asked staff to provide updated information about any insurance or ongoing training obligations before finalizing the transfer.