To: Board of Supervisors
From: Ben Winkleblack, Animal Services Director
Report Title: Ratify and Authorize Acceptance of Up to $15,000 ASPCA Disaster Capacity-Building Grant for Emergency Response and Disaster Preparedness
Recommendation: Recommendation of the County Administrator
RECOMMENDATIONS:
RATIFY the Animal Services Director’s application for and acceptance of the ASPCA Disaster Capacity-Building Grant Program in an amount not to exceed $15,000, if awarded, for emergency response capacity-building, mitigation projects, and disaster preparedness efforts.
FISCAL IMPACT:
No County General Fund match is required. Upon Board authorization and if awarded, revenue and appropriations in an amount not to exceed $15,000 will be appropriated to the Animal Services Department.
BACKGROUND:
The ASPCA Disaster Capacity-Building Grant Program supports animal welfare organizations in building emergency response capacity, undertaking mitigation projects, and improving community disaster preparedness. Grant funds may not be used for ongoing or preexisting expenses such as staff salaries, general facility costs, vehicle repairs, building repairs, or companion animal transport vehicles.
On or before July 31, 2026, the Animal Services Department submitted an application requesting up to $15,000 for backpacks, pet first aid kits, microchips, and large animal rescue supplies, prior to receiving Board authorization, necessitating ratification. The County has not yet been notified of the award determination, and Board authorization to accept the grant if awarded is requested concurrently.
CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION:
If not approved, the County will be unable to accept the grant award should it be made, and the Animal Services Department will forgo up to $15,000 in funding for critical emergency response and disaster preparedness supplies.