Press Release
Contact: Ryan Murphy
631.702.1700
PRESS RELEASE
Town of Southampton, NY April 11, 2024 — The Town of Southampton received notification that they were approved for a $402,608 grant to upgrade the flooring and kennels at the Southampton Town Animal Shelter.
The grant is being awarded from the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, under the Companion Animal Capital Projects Fund program. The Town of Southampton submitted a competitive grant application for a $447,342 project to repair and upgrade the flooring in the kennel area of the shelter, as well as to replace all of the current dog kennels. The Department of Agriculture and Markets found the Town’s application worthy of award and notified the Town that they will be receiving $402,608. The Town will be providing a $44,734 (10%) match to complete the project.
Councilwoman Cyndi McNamara, who was the Town Board liaison to Animal Control when the application was initiated by the Town commented, “I am very pleased to learn that the State selected the Town of Southampton as a recipient of this grant. Our Animal Control staff and the staff from Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation do amazing work for the pets of Town residents and visitors. We have been discussing the need for this project for some time and the awarding of this grant will help to finally make the project a reality.” Councilman Michael Iasilli echoed those sentiments and indicated, “As an advocate of animal welfare and Town Board member, I want to thank Ryan Murphy for working diligently with the Shelter to provide the best conditions possible for our pets. That’s why I worked with my colleagues on the Town Board to make April 30th Adopt a Pet Day, to which the Shelter will hold an open house this year for families to come and learn about all the services they provide.”
In 2023 the Southampton Animal Shelter had more than 900 cats and dogs come and go through its doors. Almost 500 dogs called the Animal shelter their temporary home over the course of the year. “The Southampton Town Animal Shelter is a highly utilized building and key piece of our Town infrastructure. This project will modernize the facility and create a healthier environment that enhances animal and staff well-being,” said Town Code Compliance and Emergency Management Administrator Ryan Murphy, who oversees the Town’s Animal Control Division. Murphy went on to express that the successful application was the result of a great team effort between the Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation and the Town of Southampton.
Southampton Town Supervisor Maria Moore said, “Earlier this year there was unanimous support from the Town Board on the submission of this application. When presented with the opportunity to secure funding to create a better space for the animals in our community, the Board was more than happy to support the effort. This grant from New York State will allow us to extend the useful life of the Animal Shelter facility and conduct much needed improvements at minimal cost to the Town.”
