The Santa Paula Animal Rescue Center announced it stopped taking in animals and serving as the city’s shelter as of Saturday, Feb. 1, due to a lack of funding and other ongoing issues.
In a Facebook post on Jan. 30, SPARC said the issues it had with the city included stalled contract negotiations, unmet promises and a lack of financial backing.
“The City had committed to building a dedicated shelter funded by a bond, but this promise has never materialized, and no funds have been allocated over the past 13 years,” said the shelter’s statement.
SPARC said that the city was contributing less than 8% of the shelter’s operating expenses, and that SPARC had not received an increase in monthly fees since 2018 – thus creating a “financially unsustainable situation.”
On Jan. 31, the city responded to the shelter’s announcement with a statement that addressed SPARC’s mention of funding.
“For over a decade, the City has provided financial support to SPARC, contributing $150,000 annually in taxpayer funds to assist with its operations,” stated the city’s response. “Additionally, we allocate nearly $100,000 per year for animal control services through the Santa Paula Police Department.”
Officials also noted that in 2023, the city provided SPARC with an additional $20,000 through the American Rescue Plan Act Nonprofit Emergency Relief Fund.
Both sides said they met numerous times to discuss negotiations, but that they were not able to successfully come to an agreement.
As a result, SPARC said it will no longer be able to take in owner-surrendered or stray animals.
“If you need to surrender a pet or find a stray, please contact the City of Santa Paula at 805-525-4478 for further assistance,” said the non-profit.
However, SPARC said it will continue to provide low-cost or free spay and neuter services to the public. Although these services will still be provided, the center is asking for the community’s help to find homes for their over 100 animals.
“Please visit our Facebook page and share our adoptable animals to help them find loving families,” said the shelter’s statement.
In the meantime, the city of Santa Paula said effective on Feb. 1, it will take on responsibility for “municipal animal services.”
The city also said it is actively working on a transition plan to ensure that stray, surrendered and abandoned animals continue to receive care.
“We will provide more details on our plans in the coming weeks, including resources for residents needing assistance,” said the city. “In the meantime, residents with animal-related concerns can continue to contact the Santa Paula Police Department’s Animal Control Officer at 805-525-4474.”
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