Agency to Assist with Intake of Animals
Only 90 days after releasing a contingency plan, the Gary Animal Control Division has forged a partnership with the Humane Society Calumet Area, Inc. in Munster, Ind. to assist with the intake of animals. Earlier today, a contract was approved by the Board of Works that authorizes the Humane Society to “perform professional animal control services consistent with all local, county, state and federal regulations and laws for and on behalf of the City.”
“We are extremely pleased with this agreement, and I applaud the Gary Police Department and the representatives from the Humane Society Calumet Area for their hard work in mapping out a plan that works well for both parties,” said Gary Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson. “We also think that this plan will bode well with the animal advocate groups that have expressed concerns about the care and safety of our animals.”
According to the contract, the Gary Animal Control will transport animals to the Munster facility located at 421 45th St., and the City will pay the Humane Society $50 per animal per month for services performed. However, the Humane Society will waive the S50 fee for feral cats. The contract is not to exceed $82,000 annually and shall continue through December 31, 2014. The contract may be extended for up to four additional two-year terms so long as both parties agree.
Commander Peter Sormaz of the Gary Police Department represented the City’s Animal Control Division during the negotiations.
“With the City not being in a position to build a new facility at this time, this agreement made perfect sense,” said Sormaz. “The animals will continue to get the care they need, and we have gained a great partner in the Human Society Calumet Area.”
Guardians who are looking to reclaim an impounded animal will pay a $15 fee for each day the animal has been impounded. Impoundment fees for less than three days will be waived. The Humane Society Calumet Area will begin providing services next week.