Adopt budget resolution to use Animal Services Trust fund balance to increase appropriations in the amount of $27,078 for the purchase of replacement equipment, and approve the amendment to the 2021-22 Authorized Equipment List for the purchase of the fixed assets. (No general fund impact) (4/5 vote required) (Lopez/Johnson)

Yolo County, through the Sheriff’s Office Animal Services Section, is contractually responsible for providing all cities, unincorporated areas, and the campus of UCD with animal control ordinance enforcement, dog licensing, shelter operation and spay/neuter education services. In the past fiscal years, the Sheriff’s Office has contracted with the City of Davis, City of West Sacramento, City of Winters, City of Woodland, and UCD to receive reimbursement for these services, with the agreement that any unspent portion of annual payment resulting from unanticipated animal service savings will be placed in an "Animal Services Trust" for future shelter projects, animal services equipment, or replacement items. 

Animal Services staff has identified an immediate need to replace two water softeners at the shelter. One unit in the laundry room is inefficient and outdated, and the one unit used in conjunction with the pressure washer system that cleans and sanitizes the kennels is currently outdated and inoperable. The water softeners are essential to keep several pieces of equipment at the shelter functioning properly by removing the minerals that cause scale buildup in pipes and appliances, reducing the maintenance needed on these items.  The cost of replacement for the water softeners is $10,503. As one of the existing water softeners is leased and one is owned by the County, purchasing both units will also remove the need to continue the lease payment.

There is also an existing need to upgrade security features at the shelter.  Staff proposes to replace the front access gate and side panels with an automated iron gate.  The current fencing and main gates are chain link construction, aged, and do not provide adequate protection for staff or shelter animals.  The fencing will match what is already in place at the Sheriff's Office and will create a secure, cohesive campus. The cost of the upgrade is $16,575.

Because these items are fixed assets, the Sheriff's Office is also requesting Board authority to amend the 2021-22 Authorized Equipment List.

The contracted cities have been notified of these purchases and have not objected to the Sheriff's Office plan. County Counsel has approved the attached resolution as to form. Purchasing will assist with the procurement of the fixed assets.

A three bid process will be used to purchase any fixed asset items, excluding items that have pricing or service based on an existing Master Contract.