Fulton County Humane Society asks commissioners for $5,000 monthly contract as county funding falls short

Stephanie Moore, representing the Fulton County Humane Society, told the commissioners the organization is seeking a broader arrangement with the county and said: "We are asking for a $5,000 monthly service contract," arguing that the current $18,000 annual county contribution no longer covers costs in a changing economic environment.

Brian Banister, speaking during the same update, said the Humane Society took 55 dogs last year—"which has doubled from the year before," according to the transcript—and attributed increased intake to improved organization. Moore said the shelter’s per-dog cost varies by case but estimated that "for a healthy dog [it is] about $200-$250." The record shows commissioners pressed on funding and legal limits: Commissioner Jon Rupp noted the county is mandated to provide for the dog warden and calculated that, at 55 dogs, the $18,000 county contribution equates to "about $327 per dog for the 55 dogs." He said the Humane Society’s broader operating costs complicate direct taxpayer support because the humane society is a private entity.

Commissioner Jeff Rupp raised a longer-term budget concern linked to a potentially significant local ballot measure, noting the board is cautious because of a question on eliminating property taxes that could affect county revenue collections beginning next year. Commissioners asked the Humane Society to return next year for further discussion when budget implications are clearer. The board thanked the Humane Society for the presentation; no vote or funding commitment was recorded in the minutes.