PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. (WINK) — A Charlotte County commissioner has spoken out regarding contract negotiations with the Animal Welfare League (AWL), which has threatened to terminate its decade-long agreement with the county unless it receives increased funding.
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Earlier this year, AWL notified the county that it requires a minimum of $1.3 million annually to operate effectively, significantly more than the approximately $300,000 it currently receives. This increase is attributed to inflation, rising intake numbers, and building maintenance costs. However, the county has only proposed around $500,000 per year.
District 4 Commissioner Stephen R. Deutsch stated, "There is no question that the AWL needs more support from the County, and they've needed it for a long while." He has been advocating for increased funding directly to the County Administration's negotiating team.
Executive Director Tara Zajas reassured that the shelter will remain open but expressed concern over the capacity to house new animals. She stated, "The animals that are here will still remain here, but I don’t know where the animals that the county brings us will go." She urged the public to seek answers from the county commissioners regarding future arrangements.
The next discussion between the shelter and the county is set for June 16 during a county workshop.