PAWS & More, an animal shelter in Washington, is seeking a 28E agreement with the City of Wellman for the capture and care of stray pets within the city. 

The contract, under review by the city, would formalize an existing agreement between Wellman and PAWS for humane services for unwanted or lost domestic animals. A 28E agreement provides a document of understanding between a government entity and another party for services of mutual benefit.

Wellman paid $4,100 this year for PAWS services, which include the trapping, holding, neutering, and vaccinating of animals wandering within the community. The city paid more than $7,000 the previous year. After receiving treatment, the animals are released back into the community.  Most of the animals captured were cats. 

Some residents have objected to the return of the animals. Amber Talbot, who presented the contract, told council members that keeping a small number of feral cats in a community reduces migration from outside the city, helping to manage the population.

To reduce the number of feral cats, the city recently amended an ordinance to make feeding stray animals Illegal and threatens violators with a fine. Residents have complained that feeding the animals not only increases their number, but attracts wild animals such as raccoons, opossums, and rodents.

Talbot also requested a donation from the city for the construction of a new, $3 million facility at a site that has yet to be chosen. She said that needed renovations to its existing facility would exceed the value of the building.

Council members agreed to review both the contract and a donation for approval at a later meeting.

In other action, the council approved a $55,000 contract with Martin Gardner Architecture for renovation of the city library. Due to the size and scope of the renovation, the library and its services will be moved to a temporary downtown location before construction starts later this year.

Council members approved a $5,000 Advisory Council membership to the Washington Economic Development Group (WEDG). City Manager Kelly Litwiller, a board member, recommended approval of the action, saying that the group actively assists all communities in Washington County with development opportunities.