By Scott MacKeen
Times Staff
9/25/08

(previous)
“In my opinion it’s not the best site,” said Selectman Marion McEttrick at a meeting Sept. 18. “But it’s the only one we have control of, that suits our needs.”
The current shelter, located on the 32-acre Gov. Stoughton land, is deteriorating has problems with ventilation and space. Initially, the plan called for the new shelter to be built at the same location, however the attorney general’s office will not allow use of the property.
The use of that land is dedicated to benefit the poor of Milton, according to Gov. William Stoughton’s will.
Town Administrator Kevin Mearn, who attended several public meetings on the shelter in the spring, recommended using the DPW yard as an alternative.
He said it was important to come to a decision so that MAL can start fundraising.
“They’re anxious to get started,” he said.
The $2.5 million shelter will be paid for by donations. At 8,100 square feet, it will be about three times larger than the current shelter.
Linda Kippenberger, the town’s animal control officer, said she’s glad a location has been finalized.
“It’s good news,” she said. “Just as long as we can get going, it’s not so important where (the shelter) is located.” She said some large donors were hesitant to grant money to the project until a location was in place.
Selectman Chair Kathy Fagan recognized that the decision process was a lengthy one.
“We appreciate everyone’s patience. I know they’re anxious to get started, and we owe it to them” she said.