Humane Society of the Ohio Valley revisits request to Washington County
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MARIETTA - The Humane Society of the Ohio Valley met with Washington County Commissioners following their request for additional funding in August on Thursday morning.
In the August meeting, the organization requested an additional $15,000 per month for daily operations and services.
Following the advice of commissioners, Executive Director Amy Rogers stated they had reached out to officials of neighboring cities; including Marietta City Council, and Belpre Mayor Susan Abdella.
Rogers said they approached the city of Marietta and requested an additional $1,000 per month and were awarded $1,100 a year, a five percent increase from previous years.
"We had no luck with Belpre or any other municipalities," Rogers said.
Rogers stated that without financial assistance the organization has three options; shift to a kill shelter, shift to a rescue, or shut down and turn the operation of a dog pound to the County.
"In order for us to approve a dollar amount (of additional funding), it's important for us to see a plan. What it looks like to take care of the overall population issues and what goes with that," Commissioner Charlie Schilling said.
Roger stated the creation of strategic plans would be the decision of the Board of Directors of the HSOV with its new members in January.
Sheriff Mark Warden asked what the organization believes is the root of the financial problems.
The rising costs of supplies and the financial insecurity of individuals have caused an increase in animal population and the financial crisis of the organization, according to Rogers.
Rogers stated HSOV has a capacity of 50 dogs, and their population is 83 dogs as of Thursday.
Board member Ester Salem stated if HSOV shifted to a kill shelter, the organization would face backlash that could negatively affect donations and the grants the organization could apply for.
"There's going to be a tremendous amount of backlash from animal lovers in the county. Donations are going to go down," she said, "Then you have to understand the expense of euthanizing a dog...So you're talking about what could potentially be hundreds of dollars for each dog."
"We need a plan moving forward. Right now, there is no plan," said Commissioner Greg Nohe.
Schilling said in order for the county to support financial assistance, they are looking for a plan to be developed in 2027 to address the population issues at HSOV.
Commissioner Eddie Place said he would work with HSOV to contact other officials for additional funding.
"If you need me to make phone calls, or you want to go with me, I'll be more than happy," he said.
Sophie Wheeler can be reached at swheeler@newsandsentinel.com.