West Columbia Gorge Humane Society

 

 

Unfortunately there is inaccurate information being circulated in regard to the relationship between the City of Washougal and the West Columbia Gorge Humane Society.  This memo is an attempt to correct some of that.

 

First, the current action being proposed was not through the direction of the Washougal City Council.  It was at my direction during the budgeting process for the City’s 2010 budget.  To associate the action with the council is completely incorrect.

 

Second, funding is not being cut off to the WCGHS, and was never intended to be.  What was discussed and communicated is that the funds allocated to the WCGHS should no longer be listed under animal control and they were written out of the proposed animal control budget.  From the start I have asked for the WCGHS to work with the City to see how we can appropriately assist them and asked the WCGHS for their assistance in doing that.

 

Third, no decision has been made about any funding.  At this point in time, I believe that the City of Washougal will be allocating some funds to the WCGHS.  What amount it is and what form of services are received in return are yet to be determined between the City and WCGHS.  Currently meetings are attempting to be scheduled between the City and the WCGHS to get the issue resolved before Monday’s City Council meeting.

 

Fourth, the funding in question amounts to $28,000 - $32,000 annually.

 

As a private citizen and as Mayor-Elect of Washougal, I recognize and appreciate the WCGHS’s efforts in our community.  They are certainly a worthwhile organization and for that reason my family and I have supported them in the past and look forward to continuing that support.

 

The issue that is before the council now is an issue of finances and appropriateness in the budgeting process.  To believe or construe that the City, myself or the city council is making any attempt to cut-off funding or do anything that causes the facility to cease operations is not accurate. -

Sean Guard