Caswell County and county shelter diverge over funding, operations as contract talks stall

Caswell County and the county—s contracted animal-protection shelter (APS) did not reach agreement on a proposed FY2026 operating contract and associated funding during the budget work session, and county staff warned that unresolved terms could affect whether the county makes any payment.

Background: APS operates the local animal shelter and historically has received county support. At the work session the county—s solid-waste and budget staff reviewed a new funding request from APS, proposing an increase in county support. The shelter—s board had sought operating and capital support and supplied a list of facility needs and maintenance items.

Points of disagreement: County staff said negotiations stalled when APS presented contract language that would require the county to follow operational directives that conflict with the county—s ordinance and legal authority. County staff pushed back on provisions that, in their view, would permit APS to dictate county operations and on requests that would add recurring costs without firm operational commitments from the shelter. The shelter also expressed concerns about capacity and said it has reduced euthanasia rates and faces higher intake demands, which increases per-animal costs.

Board conversation and next steps: Commissioners emphasized the county—s need to preserve statutory responsibilities and to have a written, legally vetted contract that spells out services, intake responsibilities, financial reporting and capacity limits. County staff said they will share financial information and past payments and will continue negotiations; the board must weigh any additional funding against competing budget priorities. No contract was signed at the session.

Taper: Commissioners asked staff to return with a clear contract draft and supporting financial statements so the board can make a reasoned funding decision in the budget process.