The city of Dearborn and the Friends for Animals of Metro Detroit (FAMD) are currently locked in a dispute over the costs of animal control services, with the existing contract set to expire imminently. According to The Detroit News, the current contract, which caps at $295,000 annually, is inadequate for the shelter, which has requested a substantial budget increase to approximately $457,000. This increase would allow for a revised payment of $282 per cat and $324 per dog to cover essential services such as vaccination, daily care, and sterilization of stray animals starting July 1.
Despite the ongoing negotiations, Dearborn officials have expressed concern over the shelter's request for more than a 50% increase in payments. According to a ClickOnDetroit report, Friends for Animals of Metro Detroit requires the city to pay the full cost for a four-day care period for stray animals. This cost includes sterilization, an essential component in preventing overpopulation, claimed Cory Keller, CEO and President of FAMD. During a packed meeting filled with animal supporters, he emphasized, "From day five until we adopt the animal out, it is all up to us and our donors."
Above this contract conundrum hangs the specter of potential service discontinuation. Should the parties fail to reach an accord by Sunday, animal control services could be disrupted. Keller warned that without an agreement, they would be compelled to redirect residents to city officials for animal services, essentially closing shop, "We will have signs on the doors with all your phone numbers and emails, and they can bring the animals to you," MaryAnn Wright, FAMD Board Chair ominously indicated to the council members, as disclosed by ClickOnDetroit.
City officials, meanwhile, appear to prioritize financial prudence over the FAMD's demands. During a special meeting, Dearborn Mayor Abdullah Hammoud highlighted a comparison with other Wayne County cities, observing that Dearborn's costs were already higher. Dearborn's City Council President Michael Sareini questioned the need for such a steep increase in the costs, given that other municipalities reportedly do not pay as much, while affirming his dedication to finding a solution that is fair for both taxpayers and the shelter, reported the Detroit Free Press. Despite expressing admiration for FAMD's work, Council Member Kamal Alsawafy maintained the importance of being "fiscally responsible."
While hope for a last-minute deal remains, the city has initiated discussions with alternative service providers, signaling it is prepared for all outcomes.
