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TJO September UpdatesAlthough still searching for a permanent new location for the shelter, Holyoke seems to be the likely spot. Thomas Haberlin, Chairman of the Board of Supervisors believes that the "initial efforts will be focused in Holyoke" but that other sites are still a possibility. The building is now owned by the city of Chicopee who rents it to the Center. The building is run by the surrounding towns of Springfield, Chicopee, Holyoke, Southampton, Hampden and Granby with West Springfield having a trial membership this year. The current pound has a capacity for 120 dogs. Commenting on the facility Haberlin stated "I don't think anybody is happy with that existing facility. It's too small. It doesn't serve the public or the dogs well. That thing built 15 years ago is a cinder block building with cages in it. I am not going to do that." The best location would be on land already owned by a municipality, situated close to a highway for easy access. The Board of Supervisors have hired consultant Maureen Hayes of Hayes Development Services to help search for a site. Her initial contract is for $5000 but might be expanded, stated Haberlin. In addition to site location, Hayes will be advising on steps to obtain funds from state and other sources. Haverlin has stated it would cost up to $1 million to build a state-of-the-art facility. Even though the pound will be eligible for state relocation funds, consultant Hayes states this money will barely cover expenses of moving equipment which would be insignificant in terms of the construction cost. A previous study done three years ago suggested the price of $26.00 per square foot for building a facility using state of the art materials. Chairman Haberlin stated he "needs to start building coalitions and getting people of the communities interesed and involved in what the next facility will be like". This is an important statement and invitation to get involved. We hope people will respond to this request and volunteer to assist in any way needed. There are many important issues and questions that need to be addressed. Every improvement and expansion costs dollars in space requirements, materials and equipment and personnel. Will 1 million cover it? Will communities support it? We need to hear from you - write, email, give us feed back. Additional story from the Union News relating to the TJO move.Back to TJO Updates Page Back to Main News page
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