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ELMIRA, N.Y. (WENY) -- The Elmira Animal Shelter has been a topic of public discussion at the Elmira City Council meetings, with citizens calling for the council to take action to improve the conditions there.  On Monday night, officials were able to comment on some of those concerns.

New standards are being put into place for New York State shelters and rescues by the state starting in December of 2025.  Titled the Companion Animal Care Standards Act, it will ensure all homeless companion animals live in safe and humane conditions with proper cleaning, nourishment, and veterinary care.

Elmira City Manager Michael Collins says that they are working with consultants to make sure the shelter aligns with the new standards.

"In April we had a consultant come down to make recommendations. We currently are working with different contractors to give us recommendations, proposals of what needs to be done to accommodate the laws that go into effect at the end of December of 2025. We will be applying for a grant to assist in those measure," said City Manager Mike Collins. 

Collins says the shelter undergoes inspections by New York State on an annual basis, and says they pass as satisfactory.