Press Release, Town of East Haven

The Town of East Haven is pleased to announce the strategic merger between North Branford and The East Haven Animal Shelter. North Branford does not have its own shelter and had previously contracted with the Town of Branford for these services. This move signifies a promising collaboration between the two municipalities.

Mayor Joseph Carfora and Michelle Benivengna, East Haven's Economic Development Director stated, "The integration of North Branford’s animal services into East Haven provides a cost savings to North Branford and a new revenue stream within East Haven.” Benivengna added, “We look forward to a long and cooperative relationship with North Branford. It’s been a pleasure working with Michael Downes, (North Branford’s Town Manager) and North Branford’s Town Council.”

“We are pleased to begin this new partnership with our neighbors in East Haven,” said Downes. “This move will keep North Branford in the hands of a top-notch, professional animal control operation that highly values animal welfare and care, and the North Branford Town Council’s approval of this agreement will save North Branford taxpayers over $40,000 per year.”

Mayor Carfora said “Last night’s vote confirmed what residents of East Haven have known for a long time. Our well-respected animal control team provides the highest level of empathy and care to our four-legged friends.” Carfora continued, “this administration has proactively sought innovative opportunities to generate additional revenue. Our partnership with North Branford was an opportunity to think outside the box and it benefits both communities. Through this, East Haven secures a consistent revenue stream that in turn, also provides a neighboring town a vital service. It's a win-win situation for both."

East Haven’s Animal Control Officer Emily Higgins commented, “This collaboration represents a leap forward in animal welfare and community development for both towns. By centralizing animal care services, we can better allocate resources, enhance adoption programs, expand access to veterinary care and most importantly, conduct educational outreach to raise awareness about responsible pet ownership.”

The agreement sets the cost of services to North Branford at $135,000 annually for the first two years and increases by 4% annually thereafter. Additionally, the two towns agree to review call volume to North Branford after the first year of the agreement and assess if the services are accurately reflected in the charges.

North Branford council member Nick Palladino referred to his previous work with East Haven’s beloved Animal Control Officer Owen Little by saying, “I know how East Haven operates and I know how Owen Little operates, he (Owen) has such ties to the shelter, that he retired and still works part time.”

Little appreciated the sentiment and said, “I’m humbled by the kind words from the North Branford Town Council and look forward to actively engaging with their residents as well.”