Agenda Item No: L.2
AGENDA REPORT
DATE: July 15, 2025
TO: Mayor and Council
FROM: David Gassaway, City Manager
SUBJECT: CM Animal Control and Animal Care Services
Discussion and Direction Regarding Animal Control and Animal Care Services Funding Source: General Fund
Contact: Liz Aptekar (707) 428-7389
RECOMMENDED ACTION
Receive presentation, open discussion, and provide direction to staff.
STATEMENT OF ISSUE
Humane Animal Control and Animal Care Services are dedicated to safeguarding animal welfare within city limits, ensuring public safety, and promoting responsible pet ownership. Considering rising costs and budget constraints, this report provides an overview of current operational approaches, legal aspects, and forthcoming steps.
DISCUSSION
At the Budget Update presentation during the Special Meeting on May 12, 2025, the City Council reviewed the increased costs associated with Animal Care Services and Animal Control. Council members requested additional information to clarify what the budget encompasses and the factors driving cost increases. The city manager also indicated that details regarding contractual obligations would be included in a subsequent report.
Key budget considerations include maintaining current service levels despite budget reductions, which remains the primary focus. Additionally, the cost of animal care and control services has risen due to factors such as inflation, higher medical and supply expenses, and increased demand for services.
To address fiscal challenges and ensure continued public safety, future animal service budgeting and operational strategies will focus on the careful allocation of limited resources to maximize
impact, prioritizing essential services that deliver the greatest benefit to the community. The City will also explore new or alternative service delivery models to improve efficiency and implement rigorous performance tracking to ensure accountability and sustained community safety. Next steps include refining budget strategies in response to rising costs and fiscal constraints, as well as evaluating and implementing alternative service approaches where feasible.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
N/A
PUBLIC CONTACT/ADVISORY BODY RECOMMENDATION
N/A
ALTERNATIVE ACTION
Provide direction to staff regarding specific areas of concern or interest.
COORDINATED WITH
Solano County Sheriff’s Office Animal Care Division, SACA Board Chair, and Finance Department
STAFF CONTACT
Liz Aptekar, Assistant to the City Manager
(707) 428-7389
[email protected]
ATTACHMENT
N/A