To: Board of Supervisors
From: Ben Winkleblack, Animal Services Director
Report Title: CONSIDER accepting a report and recommendation on Animal Services dispatch services, and PROVIDE guidance for proceeding with a contract, as recommended by the Director of Animal Services.
?Recommendation of the County Administrator ? Recommendation of Board Committee
RECOMMENDATIONS:
CONSIDER accepting a report and recommendation on Animal Services Department dispatch services, and PROVIDE guidance for proceeding with a contract, as recommended by the Director of Animal Services.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no fiscal impact to consider this report and recommendation.
BACKGROUND:
The Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office (CCCSO) has historically been responsible for after-hours dispatch and incoming phone coverage for Contra Costa County Animal Services Department (CCAS). In July 2020, CCCSO expanded its scope to handle all dispatch operations and incoming phone calls for CCAS.
In March 2023, the CCCSO informed the CCAS that interdepartmental dispatch services would be discontinued as of January 1, 2025, due to staffing shortages and limited capacity at the CCSO. While the CCCSO cost is variable, the current FY 2024/25 agreement for dispatch services between CCAS and the CCCSO is $308,000 for the year.
In response, the CCAS contacted several local agencies to explore contracting options for dispatch services, including 211 Contra Costa, Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, the City of Pinole Police Department, the City of Concord Police Department, and the City of Brentwood Police Department. These agencies are unable to provide CCAS' requested services.
The San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District and the City of Antioch have presented viable options to meet CCAS's dispatch needs.
Fee comparison estimates between both options are as follows:
Agency
Annual Average Cost*
Three-Year Cost*
First Year Cost
San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District
$866,667
$2,...
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