Screen Photo Haley Schoneck with Souris Valley Animal Shelter explains provisions in the shelter’s contract proposal for pound services before the Minot City Council Friday, Jan. 23.

Souris Valley Animal Shelter issued a statement Friday, Jan. 23, regarding the council’s decision not to renew the municipal pound contract but to request new proposals for service.

“This outcome was not a decision made by SVAS and is now outside the shelter’s control. This decision is not the result of neglect, misconduct, or financial instability. SVAS has fulfilled every contractual obligation over the past year and has operated in good faith while providing consistent, humane care for animals under the contract,” according to the statement released by Haley Schoneck, Communications and Development officer for SVAS.

SVAS operates under a fee-for-service model, billing the city for services rendered. The shelter does not receive lump-sum or advance funding, nor does it request private donors to subsidize costs that are the responsibility of a municipal entity, SVAS stated. The Minot Police Department budget includes about $200,000 for pound services, according to city information.

“Additionally, SVAS must maintain an independent governing board to remain eligible for national funding partners that support a significant portion of its lifesaving work,” the organization stated regarding the city’s request to seat a representative on the board.

Regarding financial documents, SVAS stated, “Requests for detailed financial records were not included in the original RFP (request for proposal), are not required of other City service contracts, and are inconsistent with this contract structure. SVAS was recently awarded the highest level of recognition for nonprofit transparency by GuideStar in 2025, reflecting demonstrated accountability, financial openness, and mission impact. SVAS finances changed significantly over the past year, and it is important that any records shared accurately and professionally reflect that growth; when finalized, SVAS is happy to share them and remains fully transparent.

“SVAS respects the City’s role and the Minot Police Department’s commitment to the community. The shelter has worked collaboratively with law enforcement and will continue supporting the Police Department through the end of February. Any animals in SVAS care at that time will be accepted into the shelter’s rescue program to ensure continuity of care.

“Our responsibility is to act ethically, transparently, and in the best interest of the animals, our donors, and the community we serve, SVAS remains committed to animal welfare and will continue its broader rescue, adoption, and community support efforts regardless of the outcome of the municipal contract.”