Hancock County Plans New Animal Shelter to Address Overcrowding and Infrastructure Issues

County Administrator Jimmie Ladner emphasized the proactive nature of this initiative, stating, "We don't want to get into a situation where it's an emergency situation to do something. This is trying to be a little preemptive and a little proactive as opposed to reactive." He noted that the board unanimously supports the shelter's replacement and that there are financial resources in place for planning.

The existing Hancock County Animal Shelter was established after Hurricane Katrina destroyed an older shelter in Waveland and originally housed 18 dogs. Shelter Director Greg Long reported that the facility has been modified over the years and now comprises 51 kennels, potentially accommodating 65 to 70 dogs. However, during surges in stray animals or when holding cases related to court proceedings, the shelter often exceeds capacity, resulting in the use of emergency outdoor runs.

The shelter receives animals from various sources, including Hancock County, Bay St. Louis, and Waveland animal control. As of September 21, surrender appointments were fully booked through December. Long noted that animals involved in criminal cases cannot be adopted while awaiting legal resolution, contributing to overcrowding.

A new shelter would ideally include dedicated space for animals linked to cruelty, neglect, or hoarding cases, as these animals often arrive with health concerns and must be kept separate from adoptable animals. Additionally, Long pointed out severe ventilation and drainage issues. The current shelter's walls, constructed with materials not suited for humid conditions, promote condensation, leading to mold and mildew growth.

Heavy rainfall further complicates the situation as it overwhelms the drainage system, causing flooding in some runs. To address these persistent issues, the Board of Supervisors has tasked the county engineer with evaluating shelters in similar communities, developing preliminary plans, and identifying the county's specific needs.

Eager to find a suitable location, the county is exploring options for property farther north, which would place the new shelter beyond flood-prone areas. Although the existing shelter avoided flooding during recent heavy rains, it is situated on the edge of a flood zone. The engineer will also prepare preliminary designs as part of their evaluation of other facilities.

Ladner expressed hope for completing site visits and preliminary plans by the end of the year, with significant decisions expected in the first quarter of 2027. If all goes according to plan, the project could move to bidding or construction by fall 2027, with the final costs dependent on the selected size and features.

Long highlighted strong community backing, including support from the county, the public, and the Friends of the Animal Shelter in Hancock County, a nonprofit assisting with supplies and animal care. Ladner noted that this organization may also help with fundraising and resource provision for the new shelter.

Ultimately, Long's goal is to establish a facility that ensures better care for Hancock County's animals and provides safer working conditions for the staff. He remarked, "My end result hope is we get a shelter that can benefit the animals in Hancock County, something that the public and the staff here can be proud of, that they can come into and know that the animals are getting the best treatment they possibly can."