County approves review of dog fees

6/23/2010

Lucas County commissioners Tuesday launched an effort that could lead to higher fees for the dog warden's office.

Julie Lyle, the county dog warden, said some of the fees now charged are much lower than the agency's costs, such as the $1.50 daily charge to house a dog that has been picked up as a stray and the $50 adoption fee.

The commissioners approved the study by a 3-0 vote, but Commissioner Ben Konop said he will be hesitant to approve an increase in fees if that is the recommendation.

"I'd be very cautious in this economy to start dramatically raising fees. That could affect adoption rates," Mr. Konop said.

He credited Ms. Lyle with improving the adoption rate and reducing the number of dogs killed in the pound since taking over from former longtime dog warden Tom Skeldon in April.

Ms. Lyle said she did not believe a higher adoption fee would lead to fewer dogs being adopted.

Commission President Pete Gerken noted that the request for the financial study came from Ms. Lyle. He said the Ohio Revised Code specifically requires the county commissioners to do a financial analysis before raising fees. He said it would take about two weeks.

Mr. Gerken said the Dog Warden Advisory Committee has also advocated that the fee schedule be reviewed.