Local SPCA facility is 'lacking' say staff

By Stephen Tipper

The Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals shelter in Maple Ridge needs replacing, said a B.C. SPCA official.

Maple Ridge council is debating whether to fund the construction of a new shelter, which would cost an estimated $1.5 million. Council is hoping that the SPCA will help fund the project.

"It's dilapidated and in constant need of repair," said Bob Busch, general manager of operations.

In every way, he added, the current facility is "lacking."

The SPCA, which provides animal control services through a contract with the District of Maple Ridge, has a "strong" working relationship with the municipality said Busch.

But if the SPCA was to help fund construction of a new shelter, officials and volunteers would have to fundraise for the money, he said.

The SPCA has recognized for years that a new facility is needed, said Busch.

The district's animal shelter, which sits on municipal property along Jackson Road adjacent to Albion Park, has been located at the same place for more than three decades. Discussions have been held many times before about the need for more "appropriate" buildings.

Newer portables were moved to the site several years ago, but they are approaching the end of their usefulness.

Earlier this week, Mayor Gord Robson said the Maple Ridge SPCA received a $625,000 donation in 1990 from a private citizen - money that he wants the SPCA to help pay for the new shelter.

The shelter could also be funded through a $10 increase in the dog licence fee, a $300,000 one-time contribution from general revenue, contributions from other municipalities, private sector tenants, community fundraising, senior government grants and an increase in animal control fund bylaw violations.

Council approved a motion at the workshop meeting to direct staff to include the $1.5 million in the 2007-2011 financial plan. The motion notes that the district will not borrow any money until the electorate approve.

published on 08/25/2006