MANHATTAN - On August 1st, the Manhattan City Commission approved for City staff to negotiate an agreement for the operation and lease of the City's T. Russell Reitz Animal Shelter, as per the recommendation of a selection committee.
In January, city administration was directed by the city commissioners of the possibility of exploring the outsourcing of operations for the shelter.
In June, commissioners approved a request for proposals(RFP) from qualified public, non-profit entities and private firms to establish a contract for the operation and lease of the City's animal shelter facility(but not including animal control).
The RFP required entities to address three core service areas of the animal shelter including: animal intake, shelter operations, and pet licensing.
Prairie Paws Animal Shelter, Inc. of Ottawa, Kansas was the only entity to submit a proposal to the selection committee.
City Commissioners approved the negotiations to proceed with Prairie Paws Animal Shelter, Inc. for the operation and lease of the T. Russell Reitz Animal Shelter.
In the fall, city staff will negotiate a contract and cost analysis to be approved by the City Commission.