Temporary Animal Shelter Closed for Zoning Violation

ABILENE, TX – The freezing temperatures prompted animal advocates to set up a temporary animal shelter at the Taylor County Expo Center in Abilene. But according to city officials, the advocates are running an illegal kennel.

According to Michelle Leinneweber, the Expo Center loaned them the building to house animals and keep them out of the inclement weather.

In a Facebook post, Leinneweber encouraged people to bring in domestic pets that do not have access to an indoor shelter.

But according to City Manager Robert Hanna, the makeshift shelter is a zoning violation and is considered an illegal kennel.

"The Texas Department of State Health Services has confirmed it is running an illegal kennel. It is also a zoning violation. We informed the Expo of the zoning violation. Obviously neither the City, nor the Expo or County can knowingly violate State law," said Hanna in a statement. "The animal shelter will work with them to find humane accommodations for the animals that do not have a home."

The staff at the Expo Center were informed and Leinneweber received a call from Expo Center General Manager Rochelle Johnson.

"She said she received three calls from the City and we have to abide by the City Ordinance and they said that if we don't shut down that they would fine us and shut us down," said Leinneweber.

The shelter's organizers are now searching for another building to keep the animals warm. The Abilene Animal Shelter only has 26 spots available at the time.

According to Mayor Anthony Williams, the city has received "many inboxes, messages, texts and phone calls" about the issue.

"Abilene we hear you loud and clear. You don’t want to see pets out in the cold , we’re with you, we feel the same way," said Animal Services Director Mike Bricker. "We currently have 26 kennels open in our shelter ... We do not ever and will not turn away a sick or injured animal in Abilene. Animals that are out in this extreme weather definitely fall into that category."