Agenda Item 8BAGENDA ITEM# 8B
FEBRUARY II, 2013
AGENDA ITEM NO. ___ _
DATE: ________________ __
CITY OF ATLANTIC BEACH
CITY COMMISSION MEETING
STAFF REPORT
AGENDA ITEM: Animal Control Facility
!}110
SUBMITTED BY: Michael D. Classey, Chief of Police
DATE: February 1, 2013
STRATEGIC PLAN LINK: N/A
BACKGROUND:
Following a visit to the building, Commissioner Daugherty asked staff to investigate and report
on adding dog runs to the kennels. The facility is equipped to house up to 6 dogs at one time.
There are 6 extra large crates which secure the dogs at all times, except when the Animal Control
staff takes them for a walk and bathroom break, which occurs twice daily.
Installing runs would provide a secure enclosure extending from the sides of the building
providing a better environment for the dogs; allowing them to get fresh air and have more
exercise time. The construction would consist of cutting through the block wall, installing access
doors in the openings, pouring a concrete slab, building concrete block dividers between
individual runs and enclosing the sides, ends and tops with chain link fencing. The cost to
construct 6 dog runs would be approximately $15,000.
Not only does this provide a much better environment for the dogs, it would also save a
significant amount of staff time each day. When you take the time for daily walks multiplied by
the pay and benefit cost and the average number of dogs per day, it is estimated that the savings
would be approximately $8,000 per year.
Staff had previously identified total space as an area of concern as well. While inspecting the
facility for the runs, the overall building was re-evaluated. The interior of the building is one
large room which means that cats and dogs are co-mingled in that room. This creates additional
stress on the animals, but also does not allow the recommended chemicals to be used to disinfect
the dog kennels due to the cats' sensitivity. In addition, there is a significant amount of
equipment which must be stored on the back porch (which is exposed to the elements and
shortens the serviceable life ofthe equipment).
AGENDA ITEM# SB
FEBRUARY II, 2013
Finally, there is no space or hook ups for a washer or dryer. The animals are given blankets to lie
on and staff uses towels to clean with. We have to take those to a commercial laundering
business to have them laundered. This amounts to an annual expense of approximately $1,500.
Staff previously obtained an estimate to enclose the end of the building to create a separate room
for the cats and equipment storage. This would provide enough space to have a washer and dryer
within the facility. The approximate cost of the additional space was $15,000.
BUDGET: Approximately $30,000
RECOMMENDATION: For discussion
ATTACHMENTS: None