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Brookings Humane Society asks county for $500,000 lead gift toward $7M shelter campaign
Summary
The Brookings Regional Humane Society told commissioners it needs a new ADA‑compliant facility and asked Brookings County for a lead pledge of at least $500,000 over five years and a doubling of its annual non‑mandated support from $10,000 to $20,000 beginning in 2027.
The Brookings Regional Humane Society presented a facility study and fundraising plan to the Brookings County Commission on April 21, asking the county to partner on a new shelter. Executive Director Maya Moore said the shelter has been at or over capacity for years and described the organization’s role in local animal control and public safety: "Our mission at the Brookings Humane Society is to improve the lives of companion animals and support those who care for them." (Maya Moore)
Moore and campaign co‑directors Angela Daly and Tammy Knutson outlined a conceptual design for an ADA‑compliant building of nearly 10,000 square feet, expanded dog kennels and improved ventilation and isolation rooms. The humane society presented intake and outcomes data: "Last year, we took in 745 animals, which was a 29% increase from the year before," Moore said. The group proposed a working fundraising goal of $7 million, with an operating campaign through 2030 and an "ultimate vision" that could grow nearer to $10 million if costs rise.
On county support, the presenters asked for a lead gift of at least $500,000 over the next five years and for the commission to double annual non‑mandated funding from $10,000 to $20,000 beginning in 2027. "We feel that county investment would really accelerate our capital campaign and it would signal strong public support for us," one co‑director said. Commissioners asked for additional breakdowns (city vs. rural intakes, comparisons with regional shelters, and equipment and FFE costs). The humane society said it would provide requested data and that it had already raised six‑figure pledges and about $1,000,000 in commitments toward the campaign.
The presentation was informational only; no county appropriation or vote occurred at the meeting. County staff noted that supplemental budget discussions are underway for the fiscal cycle and that the humane society’s request could be considered during future budget work sessions.
