City of Great Falls Animal Shelter announces fee and service cost adjustments to support operations

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DATE:             September 20^th, 2023

CONTACT:     Amelia Caldwell, Operations Manager 406-454-2276

**Effective Immediately**

GREAT FALLS, Montana – The City of Great Falls is committed to providing the best possible care for the animals entrusted to our shelter. In order to maintain the high standard of care and support the well-being of our furry friends, the City of Great Falls Animal Shelter is announcing a necessary adjustment in fees and services, effective September 20^th, 2023. This decision was approved during the City Commission meeting on September 19, 2023.

The fee adjustments come in response to the rising costs associated with providing essential services to the animals within our care. It is important to note that these fee updates mark the first of their kind since 2015, and they are intended to bridge the financial gap brought on by increased operational expenses incurred over the years.

Notable changes to the fee structure include:

• Lifetime Only Licenses: The City of Great Falls Animal Shelter will transition from annual licensing to lifetime-only licenses for both altered and unaltered animals. This change streamlines the licensing process, ensuring that pets remain protected and accounted for throughout their lifetime.
• Law Enforcement Fee: To cover a portion of the costs associated with intake, health examinations, kenneling, and a mandatory three to four-day hold period for animals brought into the shelter from the Cascade County Sheriff’s Office and Montana Highway Patrol, a law enforcement fee will be introduced. This fee aims to ensure that these animals receive the care and attention they need during their stay.

These adjustments have been thoughtfully considered to ensure that our animal shelter continues to provide a safe haven for stray and surrendered animals while also maintaining the highest standards of care. The increased fees will help sustain the shelter's mission of providing compassionate care and finding loving homes for all animals.

"The decision to adjust fees was not taken lightly. We understand that this change impacts our community members, but we want to emphasize that it is essential for us to cover the rising costs associated with animal care," stated Amelia Caldwell, Operations Manager at the City of Great Falls Animal Shelter. "We remain dedicated to serving our community and providing the best possible care to animals in need."

The proposed fee increases reflect increases in the operational costs to the City of Great Falls Animal Shelter, and a conservative estimate of $20,000 in new revenue is believed possible.

For a comprehensive list of all fee adjustments and to view the complete fee schedule, please visit our website at greatfallsmt.net/animalshelter.

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