By: NICOLAS FIERRO
Salina Post
During public comment on Monday's City Commission meeting, many residents voiced their opinions and concerns regarding the animal shelter.
Members of the public stated they want Prairie Paws, a private animal shelter with locations in Manhattan, Ottawa and Emporia to have oversight on daily operations.
In a previous interview with CEO of Prairie Paws and former Salina Animal Shelter Director, Vanessa Cowie stated she is not opposed to possibly operating the shelter.
When a private animal shelter operates a city-owned facility, there is a partnership with local government and not a complete takeover.
"We will not force our way into a community," said Cowie. "They have to want it, as much as we want it or it won't succeed and that's true of every relationship."
The City would need to approve that an Request for Proposal (RFP) be published and therefore, Prairie Paws would be given the opportunity to respond.
"There is enough evidence we would respond," Cowie said. "It is a good fit for us and we would be interested in submitting a proposal."
Mayor, Mike Hoppock said there are numerous amounts of options that are available for a partnership, other than Prairie Paws.
"We need to get information and make decisions based on facts and what's out there," Hoppock said.
Hoppock stated a study session about a possible partnership and to review those options, would take place in two weeks from March 9.
Furthermore, Cowie stated the City would need to trust them in operations at the shelter, which is the reason Prairie Paws leases a city-owned facility.
For example, the City of Manhattan hired Prairie Paws to operate their shelter under a contract.
"We don't want our city government to feel forced into an agreement they don't have faith in," said Cowie.
City Manager, Jacob Wood stated Commissioners have not given any direction as to their decision.
"We are not doing anything until the Commission provides direction and they have not provided direction one way or another," said Wood.