By Aman Chabra, Local News 8 Reporter
SHELLEY - Stray dogs and cats in Shelley will soon be taken by law enforcement to a much-improved facility.
City officials report they finally have the budget to build a new and improved animal shelter.
The new facility will be located on the same plot of land as the Shelley Sanitation Transfer Station. Officials say construction crews will clear out a plot of land in the northwest corner of the site.
Currently, stray animals are brought to a small shed-like structure behind the city maintenance building.
"It's in the middle of a residential neighborhood, and when dogs get together, they bark. So, it became a problem having barking dogs in a residential neighborhood," said Shelley Mayor, Eric Christensen.
Another problem with the shelter is the overall quality of the building. Animals deal with tight quarters and a dark, dingy environment when housed there.
And, while the new building won't be anything to fawn over, city officials say it will be a huge upgrade from what they have.
"There is no comparison, absolutely no comparison! We're excited!" said Mayor Christensen.
City officials say they have been budgeting money for the past five years, in hopes of one day building a new animal shelter.
Mayor Christensen says they have between $40,000 and $50,000 set aside, which he believes should cover all construction costs.
The Shelley Police Department will be the biggest beneficiary of the upgraded facility. Officials say Shelley has had its fair share of problems with stray cats and dogs recently, and a newer, bigger shelter will help not only the lost animals, but their owners as well.
Right now, Shelley Police can only hold onto stray animals for a few days before sending them down to the animal shelter in Blackfoot for adoption.
"This will be good for everyone because owners will have a longer time to search for their pets," said Robert Tincher with the Shelley Police Department.
Tincher says the animals will be the most grateful for the new shelter though.
"It will improve the quality of their quarters, better heating, better food and water as well," he said.
Ground is expected to be broken within the next few weeks.
City officials hope to have the new shelter completely finished by the Spring of 2010.
