The Sarnia and District Humane Society has received unanimous support from Sarnia council to move forward with construction of its new building.
Council approved official plan and zoning bylaw amendments Monday, to build a new shelter just east of the current building, on the south side of Exmouth Street north of the CN Rail Spur Line and Centennial Park.
Manager Donna Pyette told council the current shelter has served them well for close to 40 years, but has come to an end of its useful life.
"It is restrictive in providing the level of care our animals deserve and our community expects," said Pyette. "Structural deficiencies, lack of space and most importantly the inability to house animals within today's standards, coupled with the lack of accessibility for both our animals and community members, have prompted us to look at solutions."
Pyette said maintenance costs have become unsustainable and the current building is "busting at the seams."
"Although air quality meets the minimum standard, it is the minimum standard and the risk of airborne disease is high. Interior dog kennels and exterior exercise areas are small and not nearly stimulating enough. Inadequate sized rooms operate as medical exam and isolation spaces, offices typically house post-surgical animals who can not be placed into the general population."
Pyette said the new shelter will provide more space for animals and the opportunity to offer programs to assist low income individuals.
Council directed staff to negotiate a lease agreement with the organization that would include appropriate site development parameters and the removal of the existing facility.
The humane society first approached the city about its plans in April, 2021.