Over 75 members of the community, county commissioners, and staff recently gathered at the site of the future Haywood County Animal Services facility to sign and place the final beam in the roof’s structure.
The local animal rescue community that championed the new building was well represented by Sarge’s Animal Rescue Foundation, Haywood Spay/Neuter (HAWA,) Duke’s Animal Haven, FUR – Feline Urgent Rescue, and Star Ranch. Haywood County Commissioner Chairman, Kirk Kirkpatrick, and Commissioner Kevin Ensley, as well as former County Commissioner Chairman, Mark Swanger, were in attendance. Commissioner Kirkpatrick commented: “It was great to see a show of support from the various groups who have supported the animal shelter project. The building should be a great asset to their respective missions as well as to the citizens and animals of Haywood County.” Doyle Teague, Director of Animal Services, expressed similar sentiments “I’m proud of all the people who have volunteered and donated to make this building a reality and that Haywood County will soon open this modern facility.”
The new building should be completed by the end of November and replaces the current facility in Hazelwood that was built in 1989.
Dr. Kristen Hammett, Board President of the Friends of the County Animal Shelter, reported that they have raised nearly one-third of their $1 million goal and reminded the crowd that more funds are needed.
(Image: The Board of the Friends of the Haywood County Animal Shelter (from L – R) Steve Cox, Connie Hewitt, Jori Miller, Dr. Kristen Hammett, DVM, Doyle Teague, Teresa Smith (with Jackson,) Mark S. Swanger, Jim Blythe.)