24-1786 : Nowakowski- Immediate and Future Solutions for Buffalo Animal Shelter’s Facility Needs

This resolution addresses the urgent and future facility needs of the Buffalo Animal Shelter, located at 380 N Oak Street. The current conditions are described as deplorable, with inadequate space, poor ventilation, and insufficient maintenance, severely compromising animal welfare and the shelter's effectiveness. The Common Council, sponsored by Chair Mitchell P. Nowakowski, has passed a resolution requesting several actions:

• Immediate Repairs: The Department of Public Works is directed to address the shelter's most critical structural, health, and safety deficiencies immediately.
• Feasibility Study: The Department of Public Works will collaborate with the Office of Strategic Planning to explore relocating the shelter to a modern facility that meets humane standards.
• Property Assessment: The Department of Real Estate will assess the current property and commence an appraisal to evaluate the City's capital resources for the shelter.
• Funding Opportunities: The City's Grants Manager will present materials related to the Friends of the City of Buffalo Animal Shelter 501(c)(3) and explore new funding sources.
• Progress Report: The Department of Public Works and Office of Strategic Planning must submit a progress report by October 24th (with findings presented at the Finance Committee meeting on November 6, 2024) outlining potential costs, timelines, and benefits of a new facility.