Explanation
BACKGROUND: This ordinance authorizes the Director of the Department of Public Safety to enter into a contract with Columbus Humane, formerly known as Capital Area Humane Society (CAHS) to provide funding to assist with the provision of licensed humane agents to perform animal cruelty investigations within the City of Columbus. Columbus Humane has increased dispatch coverage in order to help Public Safety with calls for assistance up to seven days a week. These investigations are performed in accordance with Ohio Revised Code section 1717 in order to protect at-risk animals in the community. Consistent with the City of Columbus' public safety efforts, Columbus Humane shall notify the appropriate legal authorities of affirmed animal abuse, neglect, and suspected abuse toward humans.
FISCAL IMPACT: Funds for this contract were budgeted at $225,000.00 in the Safety Director's 2019 general fund budget within the Department of Public Safety. The City contracted with CAHS for $200,000.00 in 2015 and 2016. Funding in the amount of $225,000 was provided in both in 2017 and 2018. This ordinance is contingent upon passage of the 2019 General Fund Operating budget by Columbus City Council.
Emergency action is requested in order to continue seven-day dispatch coverage without interruption.
Title
To authorize the Director of the Department of Public Safety to enter into a contract with Columbus Humane to perform animal cruelty investigations; to authorize the expenditure of $225,000.00 from the General Fund; and to declare an emergency. ($225,000.00)
Body
WHEREAS, the Department of Public Safety, through its Director's Office, desires to enter into a contract with Columbus Humane, formerly known as Capital Area Humane Society (CAHS); and,
WHEREAS, this contract will allow for dispatch coverage by Columbus Humane to assist in the funding of licensed humane agents for the purpose of conducting animal cruelty investigations within the City of C...
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