CITY EYES PLANS FOR ANIMAL SHELTER.

Byline: Naush Boghossian Staff Writer

GLENDALE - Planning for a state-of-the-art, city-owned animal shelter has started, with advice sought from a focus group and community members to help with its design.

Members of a city focus group met for the first time Wednesday, suggesting that a new shelter include an emergency center, a spay and neuter clinic, a socialization area where volunteers can walk animals, and an area for wild animals.

``We all agreed that Glendale needs an enlightened, full-service animal care facility that it can be proud of, and that adheres to the top standards,'' said Joanne Hedge, a member of the focus group. ``Plus, the facility will need to be affordable yet expandable for future growth and services.''

A community meeting to seek ideas from the public is set for 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 2, in the City Council chambers, 613 E. Broadway.

Focus group members also leaned toward having a nonprofit group with strong city oversight operate the shelter, believing it would be the most practical arrangement and a help in obtaining funding.

``The focus group helped clarify what the community' priorities might be,'' said Elaine Aguilar, assistant to the city manager. ``I was pleased the focus group also saw the need for basic animal control services - the need for officers out there patrolling the streets.''

In June, the City Council approved paying about $54,000 to consultants Meyer & Allen Associates to design the facility. That study will identify long-term facility needs and possible locations and construction costs for the facility.

The consultant's report is expected to be completed by the end of the year. The facility is expected to be built in about three years.

The council will vote on shelter policy issues, including whether it will be a ``no kill'' shelter or under what conditions animals will be euthanized, how the construction and operation will be financed and where it will be located.

The city stopped contracting with the Glendale Humane Society last September and turned to the Pasadena Humane Society to provide its animal control needs until Glendale builds its own facility. Glendale pays the Pasadena agency about $800,000 a year for its services.

Naush Boghossian, [phone]

naush.boghossian(at)dailynews.com