Paws Humane Society in talks to take over Columbus Animal Care & Control

Ben Madilynn October 2, 2024

COLUMBUS, Ga. (WTVM) – Paws Humane Society is discussing a possible “emergency purchase” of Columbus Animal Care and Control, the city revealed during a press conference Tuesday.

Columbus Mayor Skip Henderson and city officials spoke on the investigation, which the city council requested in July, that has netted eight employee arrests – with a total of 34 criminal charges.

City Manager Isaiah Hugley says there are not enough employees to remain in compliance with the guidelines of the Georgia Department of Agriculture. The city has been allocated 25 paid positions with CACC, but only 12 of these positions are currently filled, according to Hugley. Consequently, he decided to use his authority as city manager to make an emergency purchase.

CONTINUING COVERAGE:

(From top left: Tennile Toliver, Dr. Henry (Hank) Hall, Contreana Pearson, Alexander Pimentel,...

“Paws Humane Society is interested in taking over the management of both the shelter and field services of Animal Care and Control contingent on the level of funding the city is prepared to allocate,” an email from Paws Humane Society to City Manager Isaiah Hugley.

In the email, Paws estimates $3.5 million would be necessary to properly fund the services and ensure successful operations, but requirements are open for discussion – including contract terms. However, Hugley says the current budget for that division is $2.1 million.

Paws says they are ready to step in and take over city operations. The city will begin negotiations with Paws Humane immediately. The city believes the transition can be completed in 90 days or less.

PRESS CONFERENCE BELOW:

Paws Humane Society is discussing a possible ‘emergency purchase’ of Columbus Animal Care and Control.

Certain Columbus Animal Care and Control services will be temporarily altered or discontinued until the purchase agreement, such as:

Close the facility to the public for intake processes
Owner surrender services
Lost and found
Injured or sick animals

Residents will be redirected to Paws for sick pet or adoption services. CACC is at capacity and Hugley ensures the city will continue to help get the pets adopted.

Hugley says shelter animals will continue to be cared for as the city holds adoption events, fosters, provides medical care, etc. until the center is purchased. All social pages will remain open so all animals can be displayed to the public.

“It’s disappointing, I will say, and I look forward to them having their day in court so that we can make sure we have all of the information,” Hugley said on the topic of employees in his department being arrested.

The employees charged with felonies are placed on leave of absence without pay.

Paws Humane Society opened in 2009 as a private non-profit organization.