Costa Mesa will stay with O.C. Humane Society’s animal shelter, for now

In the wake of Newport Beach’s allegations of poor conditions at the Orange County Humane Society and canceling its contract with the Huntington Beach nonprofit for animal shelter services, Costa Mesa officials say they’re maintaining their agreement with the society for the time being, but want to work with the group to fix problems.

Costa Mesa pays the Humane Society, its contracted animal shelter partner since 2009, $75,000 annually.

The council renewed its agreement in January. It expires in January 2018.

City spokesman Tony Dodero acknowledged the contentions levied against the society by Newport, but said Costa Mesa is “going to continue working with them as partners to improve the shelter.”

Newport’s council voted unanimously Tuesday to end its agreement with the Humane Society, which was set to expire in April 2016. The city instead opted to go with Home Free Animal Sanctuary, based in Santa Ana Heights.

Newport’s animal control officers say they’ve witnessed Humane Society staff leaving dogs and cats wet for several days, housing them in a building without ventilation or sunlight, and not quarantining areas for sick animals, among other allegations.

Dodero said Costa Mesa City Hall will “continue to be vigilant, and watch over things” at the shelter, but if officials feel they have grave concerns, they’ll be addressed.

Solving issues could involve spending more money on the Humane Society’s contract, Dodero said.

“If it came down to that, we would definitely assess whether that was the best thing,” he added. “If it was, we’d be willing to pay a little more to make sure we have the proper care.”