COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – A new three year animal control contract between Branch and Hillsdale Counties took a step forward on Tuesday as the Hillsdale County Board of Commissioners adopted the proposed agreement on a 4-1 vote.
Branch and Hillsdale County officials have been trying to work out a new Animal Control Contract for over a year as the current 10-year deal expires at the end of 2026.
The agreement calls for Hillsdale County to pay Branch County $25,000 annually for the Animal Control Shelter services.
In addition to the annual payment, Hillsdale County will pay $250 for every impounded animal and will be responsible for any and all costs incurred for veterinary or other medical services provided to an impounded animal.
Hillsdale County would also pay any costs associated with the euthanasia and disposal of an impounded animal during the animal’s stay at the Branch County Animal Control Shelter.
The only no vote was cast by Brent Leininger who told fellow Commissioner Brad Benzing he had objections to the contract’s lack of an opt out provision and the impound fee his county would have to pay.
The contract also calls for Branch County to provide Hillsdale County with a monthly report of the number of dogs received from Hillsdale County.
Hillsdale County does not operate its own animal shelter. The animal control arrangement between Branch and Hillsdale Counties began after a 2015 fire destroyed the Branch County shelter.
Hillsdale County contributed $90,000 toward the construction of a new Branch County shelter. In return, Hillsdale County has been responsible for sending unclaimed dogs from Hillsdale to Branch County after a 24‑hour holding period at the Sheriff’s Office
The new contract is expected to be presented to the Branch County Board of Commissioners during their work session next Thursday with formal adoption scheduled for November 24.
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