Written By David Gomez, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
SOUTHWEST MIDDLESEX - Council has approved an interim measure to ensure continuity in animal control services while preparations for a new contract are underway. During the November 6th council meeting, councillors discussed extending the current agreement with the London-Middlesex Humane Society on a month-to-month basis until the new Request for Proposal (RFP) process is completed and a contract is awarded.
The issue arose following the closure of the Glencoe Animal Shelter in June 2022, which left Southwest Middlesex and nearby municipalities without a dedicated local provider for animal control. In response, a joint RFP with Adelaide-Metcalfe was issued in July 2022, yielding only one submission. The London-Middlesex Humane Society was subsequently engaged under a one-year contract that has since been renewed annually. The current agreement is set to expire on November 30 of this year.
Kendra Kettler, Manager of Legislative Services and Clerk, presented a staff report, requesting council’s approval for a temporary extension of the contract. Kettler explained that the extension would ensure uninterrupted services while staff finalize the details of the new RFP. The process is being supported by Middlesex County’s procurement division, which will assist in reviewing submissions and evaluating bids once the RFP is released.
Deputy Mayor Mike Sholdice inquired about the timeline for completing the RFP process. Kettler expressed hope the RFP would be advertised within three weeks of final approval and a new agreement could be in place early in 2025. She added the current month-to-month arrangement includes a clause allowing for immediate termination once a new contract is secured.
Councillor Martin Vink sought clarification on the London-Middlesex Humane Society’s willingness to continue on these terms. Both Kettler and Mayor Allan Mayhew assured council that preliminary discussions with the organization had been positive, with the Humane Society indicating flexibility in accommodating the temporary arrangement.
Council unanimously approved the staff’s recommendation to proceed with the temporary extension. This decision ensures that animal control services will remain available to Southwest Middlesex residents during the transition period. The new RFP is expected to reflect updated service requirements and will play a crucial role in determining long-term solutions for the municipality’s animal control needs.
