A MOUNT Gambier City Council owned and operated animal shelter would cost anywhere between $250,000 to $350,000, according to a 2016 subcommittee review.
In moving a three part motion aimed at investigating the future of dog and cat management, councillor Paul Jenner cited a report tabled at an operational meeting outlining the figures.
Cr Jenner said it was “unfortunate” councillors were not told about the report before January’s meeting, when elected members voted to explore alternate options of animal control.
Councillors made no change to the funding agreement with the South East Animal Welfare League, which is due to expire at the end of June.
The league currently receives funding contributions for operations through a tripartite agreement between the league, City Council and Grant District Council.
A City Council staff report said a reduction in dog impounds and rising impounding fees said the cost to council per dog had increased from $189 in 2014/15 to a predicted $476 in 2018/19.
Cr Jenner said the costs associated with council establishing its own method of animal management were significant.
“It is really unfortunate that we were told what we were told last month and not given this information,” he said.
“We do not want to have to build a facility ourselves so I suggest we go out and actually have a look at it and find out the reality.”
Elected members unanimously agreed to tour the league facilities, which they did this week, as well as seek a meeting with the league to discuss the management of their operations.
Council will also seek copies of “any reports, discussion papers, power point presentations or any other information” relating to the existing funding agreement and management of council’s legislated responsibilities.
