Carson, Fountain leaders strengthens partnership

By Jordyn McCulleyDecember 21, 2022

FOUNTAIN, Colo. - Col. Sean M. Brown, U.S. Army Fort Carson garrison commander, and Sharon Thompson, the City of Fountain mayor, sign an Intergovernmental Support Agreement Dec. 13, 2022, at Fountain City Hall. The stray animal control IGSA provides an avenue for military installations to partner with neighboring communities for provisions of services upon the installations.
FOUNTAIN, Colo. - Col. Sean M. Brown, U.S. Army Fort Carson garrison commander, and Sharon Thompson, the City of Fountain mayor, sign an Intergovernmental Support Agreement Dec. 13, 2022, at Fountain City Hall. The stray animal control IGSA provides an avenue for military installations to partner with neighboring communities for provisions of services upon the installations. (Photo Credit: Jordyn McCulley) VIEW ORIGINAL

FOUNTAIN, Colo. – Fort Carson Garrison and the City of Fountain leaders signed an Intergovernmental Support Agreement Dec. 13, 2022, at Fountain City Hall.

The stray animal control IGSA provides an avenue for military installations to partner with neighboring communities for provisions of services upon the installations.

“It serves (Fort Carson’s) best interest because they receive an enhanced service from the local community that is more efficient and cost saving,” said John Trylch, City of Fountain, administrative services director.

Fort Carson partnered with the City of Fountain who will have a contract with the Humane Society to help provide day-to-day services.

The stray animal control agreement provides a safe and humane way to provide shelter, assessments, and control of stray domestic animals.

“Directorate of Emergency Services is not resourced to handle stray animals on the installation,” said Maj. Erin McClain, Directorate of Emergency Services executive officer. “Stray animals are not a law enforcement function-but are considered pest control and a Department of Public Works function. The IGSA will allow the community to better resolve stray animals. The IGSA facilitates the community to safely relinquish their animals.”

It will also allow for DES to refocus their personnel and duties away from stray animals.

“This is going to save taxpayers three quarters of a million dollars over the course of 10 years,” said Col. Sean M. Brown, U.S. Army Fort Carson garrison commander. “It helps Fort Carson lead the way, and Fountain and our other partners are a huge part of that.”

City of Fountain Mayor Sharon Thompson agreed with the IGSA presented and the council passed the notion.

“Thank you for bringing another IGSA to us,” said Thompson. “This is fantastic for strengthening our relationship with Fort Carson and all of its members who live within our community.”

The stray animal control partnership will begin the first week of the new year.