TO: HONORABLE MAYOR FROM: Councilmember Ortiz
AND CITY COUNCIL Councilmember Torres
Councilmember Doan
Councilmember Batra
DATE: 6/13/2023
Approved:
Date: 6/9/23
SUBJECT: APPROVAL OF THE 2023-2024 OPERATING AND CAPITAL BUDGETS FOR THE CITY OF SAN JOSÉ AND SCHEDULE OF FEES AND CHARGES.
RECOMMENDATION
Direct the administration to:
1) Return to Council in Fall 2023 with an ordinance to add an exemption for License Fees under SJMC Section 7.20.550 to waive the Animal Care Services’ Dog and Cat License Fee for those meeting certain income eligibility criteria. 2) Conduct a comprehensive review of other City Programs with income eligibility criteria to help assess the financial situation of those who are unable to afford the renewal of these fees.
a) An example of eligibility but not limited to; a person with income levels 60% AMI or less.
3) Update the Schedule of Fees and Charges to reflect this exemption in the 2023-2024 Mid- Year Budget Review in February 2024.
DISCUSSION
Many families have been contacting the city staff and our offices worried about being unable to afford their pet's licensing fees. Owning multiple pets means several vaccines are needed to keep them up to date, which can cost up to $100 each. The most important vaccine, rabies, is used to license pets and can last from 1-3 years. Renewing a licensing fee with a rabies vaccine that is up to 3 years can cost families $55-$65, depending on whether their pet is spayed or neutered.
COUNCIL AGENDA: 6/13/23
ITEM: 3.6
On page 131 of the 2023-2024 Proposed Fees and Charges Report the following fees are assigned to renewal of pet’s licensing:
To help alleviate financial pressure for families considering pet adoption, a potential waiver of licensing fees for future vaccination can serve as both a benefit and incentive, especially since the Animal Shelter is struggling to find permanent homes for the 900 animals currently in their care.