Item 9: Draft Recommendation to Council regarding Satellite Adoption Centers — original pdf

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RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL ANIMAL ADVISORY COMMISSION 20260511-009 EXPANDING ACCESS TO PET ADOPTION THROUGH SATELLITE ADOPTION CENTERS WHEREAS, the City of Austin is committed to promoting animal welfare, supporting no-kill practices at Austin Animal Center, and achieving open intake; and WHEREAS, the Austin Animal Services Strategic Plan published in 2025 cites “Research, analyze, and explore additional locations to offer ASO services throughout the community (i.e., new satellite locations, secondary locations)” as Humane Care Goal 2C as well as “Expand ASO’s community presence, including increasing participation in local events, hosting new activities, and building partnerships” as Live Release Goal 3C; and WHEREAS, overcrowding in our shelter strains our resources, greatly hinders intake capacity, and creates barriers to timely adoption; and WHEREAS, increasing the visibility and accessibility of adoptable pets has been shown to significantly improve adoption rates and community engagement; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin owns and operates various public facilities and properties that may be suitable for temporary or permanent use as satellite adoption centers; and WHEREAS, Travis County contracts the City of Austin as part of their Animal Services Interlocal Agreement and also owns and operates various public facilities and properties that may be suitable for temporary or permanent use as satellite adoption centers; and WHEREAS, partnerships with local nonprofit organizations, as well as private businesses and community groups, could provide additional locations, volunteer staffing, and resources for off-site adoption efforts; and WHEREAS, establishing satellite adoption centers in high-traffic, community-centered locations throughout Austin and Travis County would reduce barriers to adoption, increase foot traffic exposure for animals, and enhance community participation in animal welfare initiatives; SO BE IT RESOLVED, that City staff across the appropriate departments shall research, and when appropriate, pilot satellite adoption center locations in Austin and Travis County; and SO BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Austin City Council shall offer full support in finding ways to reimagine the utilization of City owned or rented facilities so as to minimize the cost burden on residents and the Austin Animal Services Department in pursuit of these goals; and SO BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Travis County Commissioners Court shall take equal ownership and innovative steps in re-imagining the utilization of County owned and rented facilities in pursuit of these goals. Date of Approval: Motioned by: Seconded by: Vote: For: Against: Abstain: Recuse: Off Dais: Absent: Attest: