TOWNSHIP OF ESQUIMALT STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: December 1, 2025 Report No. CSS-25-007
TO: Council
FROM: Judy Kitts, Director, Strategic Initiatives
SUBJECT: Animal Control Services, Contract Award
RECOMMENDATION:
Recommendation
That Council awards the contract to provide animal control services to the Township for a three-year period to Victoria Animal Control Services commencing January 1, 2026, with options to extend two additional years on mutual agreement.
Body
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
The Township of Esquimalt's contract for animal control services expired on February 28, 2025, and the current provider is providing services on a month-by-month basis.
A Request for Proposal was issued on October 10, 2025, and two submissions were received. Staff recommend that the Township enter into a new contract with Victoria Animal Control Services for a three-year term with option to extend two additional years on mutual agreement.
BACKGROUND:
Historically, the Township has contracted animal control services as addressing animal management issues involves expertise, specialized tools and equipment, and kenneling facilities, all of which are outside of the abilities and infrastructure of the Township. All communities in the region contract for animal control services with either CRD Bylaw and Animal Care Services (CRD) or Victoria Animal Control Services (VACS).
The Township's current contract is with VACS, and while it expired on February 28, 2025, they are currently providing services on a month-by-month basis. A Request for Proposals for Animal Control Services was issued on October 10, 2025, and closed on November 7, 2025. The Township received proposals from VACS and the CRD.
VACS Proposal:
* Offered 65 hours per month to include response to calls and patrol hours as well as 32 hours per month of dedicated proactive patrol hours, for a total of 97 hours per month (our current service level).
* The proposal is submitted for a 5-year contract with no i...
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