By Scott Harvey
Bonham – Fannin County officials are waiting to receive bids on the construction of a new animal shelter, which would replace the existing facility.
According to Bonham City Manager Corby Alexander, the construction costs will come primarily from a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
Another grant and private donations will also help with funding, but participating cities will be responsible for maintaining the shelter.
"This will be a facility that everyone in the county hopefully participates in," Alexander said. "Part of the participation of bringing the animals here will be that those communities help pay for the operational costs of the facility."
It's projected to cost a $3 per capita increase to each city's budget with a population over 1,000. A $1.50 per capita increase is being asked of cities less than 1,000 residents. Most of the county's incorporated cities have set aside funding for the project.
The proposed shelter would be located along CR 4200 near the new county jail.
Officials hope to award a bid within the next few weeks, then begin construction shortly their after.