Citing concerns with rising costs, town council has decided to renew its animal control contract for 2009 only.
The Upper Credit Humane Society (UCHS) had requested the town renew its contract for 2009 and 2010, with 10% increases each year.
Proposed UCHS fees were: $14,282 in 2008, $15,710 in 2009 and $16,496 in 2010.
“I still think the increase is very high,” councillor Barb Tocher said when Mayor Rod Finnie noted the renewal delay was mostly the fault of the town.
Finnie said council does have concerns with the current level of service provided, and he suggested the town issue a request for proposals for animal control services in 2010.
Councillor Ken Chapman said he’s tired of seeing 10% increases, especially when the UCHS does not make the request in front of council.
“When they just come with a piece of paper asking for 10%, I have a problem,” Chapman said.
A resolution approving the UCHS as the service provider for 2009, passed by a 3-2 vote, with Chapman and Josie Wintersinger opposed.
Finnie said town staff should request a meeting with the UCHS and express council’s concern with the level of service it is providing.
