Columbia Council approves $995,000 purchase to bring animal shelter in-house

Columbia’s City Council unanimously approved buying the former Columbia Animal Hospital at 1300 Boone Industrial Drive for $995,000 to bring animal-control shelter operations in-house. The city will initially fund the purchase from reserves, with Boone County expected to contribute $400,000 later. The facility is intended to support shelter services, veterinary care and maintenance. The Central Missouri Humane Society will continue providing services under its current contract through 2027, after which the city plans to seek a nonprofit or private provider for services beginning in 2028.