May 8th, 2023

Future of Always and Furever Midwest Animal Sanctuary uncertain after contentious planning commissioners’ meeting

PAOLA, Kan. – The Miami County planning commission has delayed the vote on a conditional use permit for Always and Furever Midwest Animal Sanctuary after a packed, sometimes contentious, public hearing on Tuesday evening. The shelter, located in Spring Hill, hopes to expand their operation after purchasing a 40-acre site adjacent to the existing facility.

The plan is drawing the objections of neighbors due to the scale of the proposal in a residential-rural area. Supporters, however, point to the design of the project which works to minimize its impact on its neighbors and preserve the aesthetic quality of a rural environment. In addition, supporters point out the good work and reputation that Always and Furever boasts in a county that has no other animal rescue organization.

“There is a proven need and demand for these services as well as widespread community support,” said Jen Dulski, founder and owner of the organization, which is a 501(c)(3) non-profit. “As the project has evolved, we’ve heard our neighbors’ concerns,” Dulski said to the commission. “You are not being asked to take an unknown risk on a new organization or venture. You are being asked to put your faith in an organization that […] has gone above and beyond to listen, revise, and address each concern.”

Some Miami County residents remain unconvinced. Property owners within 1000 feet of the property were invited to voice their concerns. Many cited worries regarding traffic, noise, light pollution and the prospect of escaped animals. Always & Furever’s impact abatement plans include leaving a densely wooded buffer around the property, along with double-locking gates and motion sensor lighting at night.

Miami County Planning Director Kenneth Cook highlighted zoning concerns in a report he presented at the start of the meeting. “As I have considered this request it has actually been a bit more difficult than most other requests that I’ve dealt with,” Cook said. He went on to acknowledge that the proposed shelter would offer a great benefit to the community before ultimately offering a recommendation of denial due to its potential impact on neighborhood character.

The project plans to leave 95% of the property as open space, acting as a nature preserve with walking trails. In addition to the infrastructure to handle 160 animals, the plans also include a private veterinary hospital. Another facility is planned off-site to replace the Osawatomie pound, which has been solely staffed by Always and Furever for the past four years. The project, including the Osawatomie shelter, will be tax-free for Miami County residents and will be able to house 230 animals in total.

“How Miami County could possibly even consider turning down the opportunity to be gifted a million-dollar facility to be run by the best rescue in the nation, free of charge, is beyond me,” said audience member and shelter staffer Miranda Munden.

The evening saw a flow of impassioned speakers as supporters of Always and Furever crowded into overflow rooms and hallways. “This is by far the largest public hearing I’ve been a part of in terms of turnout,” said Planning Commissioner John Menefee.

The commission will continue hearing speakers on May 2nd. On May 10th, the Miami County Board of Commissioners will vote on the final decision.