There was some controversy, but ultimately, the Kelso City Council voted last night to allow staff to enter negotiations for a one-year agreement with the Humane Society of Southwest Washington.

The vote comes as animal control has been in a bit of limbo since the change in ownership of the Humane Society. Currently, Kelso has been using kennels at the Cowlitz County Jail.

The vote passed 5 to 2, with Council Members Keenan Harvey and Lisa Alexander voting against the proposal. There was one stipulation: the cost should not exceed $55,000. Nothing has been finalized as of yet, but yesterday, staff presented a proposal that would include a $30,000 initial charge, with the city being charged per animal housed.

Council Member Harvey said that he felt the decision seemed too premature to approve. He expressed concern that entering this agreement might lead to a longer contract and higher costs in future years. Harvey argued that, for now, the city should continue using the kennels at the jail.

Council Member Mike Karnofski noted that during this year’s contract, they could explore other potential options.

Other concerns included that some council members wanted to be charged per capita rather than per animal