Township gets funds to upgrade animal shelter

By Lisa Brody

Bloomfield Township Trustees unanimously approved a grant that would permit the township animal shelter to upgrade its HVAC system, for the amount of $36,702, at their meeting on Monday, January 24.

Nicholas Soley, community relations officer for the township police department, informed the board of trustees that in mid-2021 he was approached by a non-profit foundation to apply for a grant for any improvements needed at the animal shelter. Soley said he discussed it with chief Phil Langmeyer, and they determined the HVAC system at the shelter was the top priority on their list.

After receiving a quote from Tech Mechanical for $36,702, which would include removal and disposition of all of the existing heating units, as well as installation of a new furnace, air conditioning unit, as well as a new heating unit in the kennel area, new duct work and new thermostats, a grant application was written and submitted.

“We were thrilled when we were approved for the full amount,” Soley said.

Per the grant, he said, the work must be completed by August 1, 2022. The grant is a reimbursable grant, meaning the township will pay for the work and then be reimbursed by the non-profit, with is a 501(c)3 foundation.

“Their main focus is on improving the environment and welfare of animals we take in,” Soley said.

Trustees unanimously approved the grant.