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Discussion

February 10, 2012

Mayor: Welcome discussion of alternatives

By Chuck McClanahan Mayor of Corsicana

Corsicana — Join the discussion on this commentary by using the Facebook app to the right.

During the City Council meeting on Feb. 7, 2012, several people spoke during the public forum asking for the opportunity to vote on whether or not to issue $2,000,000 of debt to build a new animal shelter. In a recent letter I discussed the reasons why I cannot agree to place the items on a Council agenda. This decision was not one that I came to over night. I have been considering this since Tom Wilson first asked for the item to be placed on a ballot in a budget work session last summer. I was concerned about the funding of the project then. Since that day, I have struggled to find an alternative to satisfy the desire of some for an improved shelter and the need to build consensus among the Council.

During the public forum, I was encouraged that at least two speakers requested a discussion of alternatives. The alternatives must satisfy a majority and be something the City can afford. The only solution I have been able to justify is to improve the existing shelter with a combination of volunteer work, Humane Society funding, and city contributions. I have personally proposed that option to fellow Council member, Tom Wilson. It was rejected and at least one of the speakers Tuesday night rejected the proposal as well. I believe there is a compromise and would welcome the opportunity to explore a plan to improve the existing shelter.

Comments have been made that the City has done nothing in the effort of helping the animals. This is not true. The City spends $200,000 every year to operate the existing shelter. The Humane Society was offered the option to run the shelter. The former Mayor established an Animal Services Board to allow the Humane Society to have input into how the existing shelter is operated. The City found a location to build a shelter. The City has recently secured a contract with the Ellis County SPCA to receive animals from our shelter to improve the chances for adoption and ease overcrowding. My research shows the City has done a great deal to support the effort.

The citizens elected the Council members to look at all the facts, analyze the budget, and make a decision in the best interest of the City. After a meeting with the City’s financial advisor and making several tours of the existing shelter, I am adamant that I have made the right decision. During these economic times, the citizens of Corsicana cannot afford a tax increase to build a new animal shelter. While the show of support at the Council meeting is impressive I have received almost three times the number in calls supporting my decision.

I continue to be proud to be your Mayor.

Chuck McClanahan

Mayor of Corsicana

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