London Humane Society overwhelmed by City of London investment – London | globalnews.ca

The Humane Society of London and Middlesex says it is “overwhelmed” by the investment planned by the city.

tentatively agree-on Revisions to the 2023 Part of the Multi-Year Budget Includes $3 million for the Humane Society.

The money will go toward the construction of HSLM’s new animal complex. The new facility will double the capacity of Human Society’s current location.

HSLM executive director Steve Ryall says the humane society greatly appreciates the council’s support.

“We are incredibly grateful and excited,” said Ryall. “Reaching this milestone was a very emotional day for all of us.”

The $3 million from the city will bring the money raised to about 76 percent of the $21 million goal. The funding was passed unanimously, but with a change in the source of the funds.

Originally expected to come from the Community Investment Reserve Fund, the money will now come from the Operating Reserve Fund. Neither the original nor the source of the agreed-upon funds will affect the 2023 taxability.

Rial says the need for the new facility is high because the current facility is aged and no longer up to industry standards. With more than 30,000 square feet, says Ryall, the new facility — which will be called the Old Oaks Animal Campus — will meet the city’s needs.

An education center will be built providing youth programs and space for day camps and school field trips. Training space will also be available for the students.

Ryall describes the adjacent companion animal hospital location as something that will make a positive impact on both the animals and the community.

“We will be able to provide veterinary care not only to the animals in our shelter…but also to the community,” Ryall said.

Veterinary care will also be provided at subsidized rates for those with financial difficulties. Ryall says that currently the number one reason for animal surrenders is the cost of animal care.

“If people have proper care for their animals, it’s one more reason why they won’t need to surrender, which I think is very important for the future of animal welfare,” Ryall said.

During Thursday’s budget talks, HSLM staff informed council it expects the shovel-ready project to begin by April, with a 14- to 18-month estimate for construction time.

Councilors praised HSLM and the upcoming new facility during Thursday’s meeting, noting the additional services the new facility will offer the city and surrounding area.

“I know that as our city grows and the population grows, the need is great,” said Count. Anna Hopkins.

Deputy Mayor Shawn Lewis says the funding could be the catalyst to get HSLM over the finish line for its goal.

“We can really set a tone here and we can also help leverage some funding from other levels of government,” Lewis said.

“Caring for animals is very important, but there is also a community benefit as well,” Lewis added, referencing educational programs and the ability for pet owners in custody to accept animals from police.

Ryall confirmed that the humane society will continue to reach out to surrounding Middlesex County municipalities for additional funding.

country. Elizabeth Peloza told HSLM staff in attendance that the money would not be final until the February 14 council meeting, when the 2023 portion of the multi-year budget would be ratified.

However, the budget chairman said, “It looks like you have the support and I look forward to seeing the construction of the facility.”

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