Canmore council has agreed to put $10,000 this year from its own contingency budget towards the Bow Valley SPCA.
In addition to the 2011 contribution, politicians directed administration to come back next year with sustainable funding options for the future.
“I would really like to make a donation to the SPCA because I firmly believe what they are doing is valuable to the Town of Canmore,” said Councillor John Borrowman.
Borrowman added Canmore should approach the Town of Banff and the MD of Bighorn, both served by the organization, to make a similar contribution.
It was a sentiment shared by others on council.
“We need to figure this out beyond just handing out cheques,” said Coun. Ed Russell who pointed out the only other group contributing to the cause is the Lake Louise fire department. “I am torn up by this… we are jumping in to fund this group that serves a larger area than just our community.”
Mayor Ron Casey said there are various options of bringing the issue up with neighbouring municipalities.
“I’m sure the sense of fairness from our neghbouring municipalities will compel them,” he said.
Canmore had donated a portion of dog licence fees purchased each December to the SPCA, but stopped in 2010.
Casey added going into the future he would prefer to see a portion of dog licences go towards the charity.
Manager of Bylaw Services Greg Burt said over a five-year period the percentage contribution saw over $25,000 donated.
“I would like to see something sustainable so the SPCA does not have to keep knocking on our door for a handout,” said Coun. Joanna McCallum.
