Thu Nov 21 00:40:00 UTC 2024: ## Toledo City Council Debates Future of Animal Control Contract Amidst Budget Concerns

**TOLEDO, OH** – The Toledo City Council is grappling with the future of a decades-long partnership with Lucas County Canine Care and Control (LC4) and the Toledo Police Department regarding animal control services. Concerns over rising costs have prompted a critical review of the contract, which currently allocates $75,000 annually but has consistently exceeded that amount in recent years.

This year’s expenditures have already surpassed $83,000, prompting questions from council members about the escalating costs and a lack of clear data on call volumes for the past three years. Council member Theresa Gadus questioned the lack of readily available information regarding call numbers and the origin of the $75,000 budget allocation.

Council members also raised concerns about the lines of responsibility between LC4 and other animal welfare organizations, suggesting that some calls, such as those relating to animal neglect or malnourishment, might be better handled by a humane society. Council member Theresa Morris expressed a desire to clarify the division of responsibilities to potentially reduce the overall number of calls handled by LC4. The goal, she stated, is to maintain services while being fiscally responsible.

Meanwhile, LC4 interim Director Michael Hart cited an increase in shelter intakes compared to adoptions as a reason for requesting increased staffing levels in their 2025 budget proposal, which seeks $3.74 million. This request comes as LC4 anticipates completing its new $35 million facility by July.

The city council is scheduled to hold further discussions regarding the contract on Wednesday. The situation highlights a broader budget scrutiny, with Lucas County commissioners currently reviewing the 2025 general fund budget, projected to be near $190 million, similar to the 2024 budget. The largest departmental budget is proposed for the Lucas County Sheriff’s Office at $40.5 million.

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