Council discusses animal control

During their meeting Thursday, March 26, Longview City Council approved Ordinance 3546, a business and occupation update. The ordinance’s purpose is to align city code with Washington state changes in Senate Bill 5814. The main differences with this update are the reclassification of several services, including retail sales, IT (Information Technology), advertising, custom software, security and temporary staffing. This ordinance is “largely administrative” and “likely to have a small impact on local businesses.”

Council members also discussed and approved Ordinance 3574, a utility tax expansion meant to apply the tax to all customers, including those outside city limits. With the change, roughly $1.1 million will be added annually to the city’s general fund. Some council members raised concerns that customers outside city limits already pay higher utility rates and that adding a tax could be unfair. The staff said higher rates reflect increased infrastructure and service costs in outlying areas, while the utility tax helps fund general services such as police and fire protection.

The council also approved Ordinance 3576, a Board of Adjustments update that allows meetings to be canceled when no applications are scheduled. Officials state this change will “improve efficiency and avoid unnecessary meetings.”

Council then approved Resolution 2612, updating the city’s transportation and transit plans. The update includes $3 million from the Transportation Improvement Board and $2 million in federal funding secured through Congress for transportation projects. Additional updates to the RiverCities Transit program include operating adjustments and the purchase of bus-stop amenities and smaller-transit vehicles. Officials noted such updates are required to maintain eligibility for state and federal funding.

The council also discussed ongoing animal control and shelter issues. The city currently relies on contracted services with the Humane Society, while the County is working to develop a new animal shelter that is not expected to be ready for at least six to eight months. Without a contract in place, officials said the city would be forced to stop responding to most animal-related calls, handling only dangerous or urgent cases. Police officials noted the department handled about 1,450 animal-related calls during a time without animal-control assistance, underscoring the demand for the service. The City also stated it is not currently equipped to operate its own shelter, acknowledging past failed attempts. To avoid a service gap, the council supported continuing service with the Humane Society, while including a 60-day exit clause if a better option becomes available.

Council directed staff to work with the County on shelter development - including exploring potential support such as construction and utility work - and to return with a plan in April. Council then approved Resolution 2613, outlining its priorities and vision for the year. The resolution focuses on strengthening public safety, maintaining fiscal responsibility, and investing in infrastructure. Officials said the measure “is intended to improve transparency, demonstrate the value of taxpayer spending, and guide future city decisions.”