Pet Licensing In Great Fall May Change, Here’s The Proposal

The Great Falls Animal Shelter is gearing up for changes in its fee structure.

City commissioners are set to review these proposed adjustments and will consider scheduling a public hearing for September 19th.

The proposed changes come as a response to the increasing costs of providing essential services to the public while aiming to recoup some expenses.

A Shift to Lifetime Licenses

One of the primary changes on the table involves a shift from the current annual licensing model to a lifetime-only license.

This change mirrors a nationwide trend that has successfully boosted licensing participation. The existing fee structure, which was adopted in 2015, will see a significant overhaul.

Long Overdue Adjustments

While some fees have seen adjustments, it's worth noting that others have remained unchanged since 2014.

One notable modification is the transition from annual licensing to a lifetime-only option for animal registrations.

This change is expected to enhance compliance with the city's animal registration ordinance, as current shelter records reveal that only about 10 percent of animal licenses are renewed annually.

Financial Implications

The proposed fee adjustments were already included in the current fiscal year's budget, which commissioners adopted in July.

These modifications are expected to reflect the increased operational costs incurred by the city shelter.

The staff anticipates that this new fee structure will generate an estimated $20,000 in revenue, helping to offset some of the financial burdens associated with providing essential services for the community's animals.

New Fee Structure

Click Here Animal Shelter Fee Proposal

Final Thoughts

The Great Falls Animal Shelter's proposed fee structure changes mark a significant step towards adapting to the community's evolving needs and aligning with national trends in animal licensing.

As the city commissioners review these proposals, the hope is that these adjustments will benefit the shelter's finances and contribute to better animal welfare and support services for Great Falls residents.

The possible upcoming public hearing on September 19 will allow residents to voice their opinions and concerns about these proposed changes.