After years of uncertainty about the future operation of Palo Alto Animal Services, contract provider for Los Altos and Los Altos Hills, the Palo Alto City Council could take action next week to move the process along.
The council on Monday (Aug. 27) is slated to review an operating agreement with Pets in Need (PIN), the Redwood City-based nonprofit organization selected through a request for proposal process to assume operations of Animal Services.
“While the opportunity to enter into a public-private partnership with PIN remains an exciting opportunity and staff is drafting the necessary contracts terms that are agreeable to PIN, there are a number of considerations for Council to evaluate in a approving a contract with PIN,” according to a report from city staff members.
The report directs the council to review PIN’s requests for expansion of Animal Services’ Bayshore Road facility to adjacent (and currently leased) city property and for city commitment of $3.4 million over three to four years for facility improvements. Another condition of PIN operation is the end of owner-requested euthanasia at Animal Services; PIN is a no-kill organization. Staffing changes, including the departure of five Animal Services employees who will be laid off should the contract be approved, need also be considered.
Absent an agreement with PIN, “the only other option would be closing the Animal Shelter and contracting with another service provider,” according to the report.
The special council meeting is scheduled 5 p.m. Monday – with discussion and direction related to Animal Services set for 6:40-8 p.m. – in council chambers, 250 Hamilton Ave., level G.
To review the agenda, visit the Palo Alto City Council website.
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