C.R. animal shelter plans fall by wayside

Through the muddy waters of the flood of 2008, several things have become clear. Cedar Rapids leaders have a commitment to some projects and not others. No one disputes the need to prioritize when so much rebuilding is needed all at once. Several projects are now moving forward with one conspicuous absence: a new animal shelter.

There was never a word mentioned in Mayor Ron Corbett's State of the City address. FEMA has denied the majority of the cost of a new facility and proposes to return the shelter to the pre-flood location, where the health and safety of staff, public, volunteers and the animals will be continually jeopardized.

Cedar Rapids Animal Care and Control is a necessary service integral to public safety and humane animal sheltering. Several members of the city council appear disinterested in ensuring the future of our animal care and control program. Why?

There is public support in the communities of Cedar Rapids and Marion for a new facility that will reflect a humane attitude that leaders should be promoting, not ignoring. The temporary facility is inadequate. The lack of attention to this issue is inadequate. If this community is to be made whole again, you can't continue to ignore its pet animal population or those of us who support a new and humane shelter that this community can be proud of. Progress, not regress. Build that shelter!

Jan Erceg

Solon