by Paula M. Manini
TRINIDAD — At a recent meeting, Noah’s Ark Animal Welfare Association announced plans for a state-of-the-art shelter serving southern Colorado and northern New Mexico. NAAWA wants to construct the facility on 2.2 acres donated by the Sawaya Estate. Richard Sawaya said a love of cats and dogs motivated him and his family’s gift.
The current shelter building, leased from the City of Trinidad, falls well below best practices and state regulations. Kim Riddle, NAAWA Executive Director, explained the shelter remains open only because “it is grand-fathered in.” No one at the meeting disputed the need for a new shelter.
Several people, however, expressed concerns about the facility’s proposed location at the intersection of Santa Fe Trail and Moore’s Canyon Road. Residents of the Fisher’s Peak Reserve neighborhood are concerned about impacts on property values, safety, traffic, noise, the sewage system, and wildlife, and unintended consequences of zoning changes.
NAAWA’s response to these concerns will be posted on their facebook page and electronic copies will be provided upon request. Karen Griego, NAAWA board president, invited everyone to express their concerns at the City Zoning Commission public meeting at 5:30 pm on November 10, when NAAWA will request a zoning change from Low Density Residential to Community Services.
According to the draft plan, the shelter will be from 4,500-6,000 square feet in size. Executive Director Riddle estimated a cost of $1.2 million dollars, depending on the final size. The directors have engaged the Third Sector Group of Colorado Springs to conduct a fund-raising feasibility study and assist with obtaining funds.
Existing seed money comes mostly from the sale of two homes donated by Sharon Pierce in memory of her son J. Christopher Johnson. NAAWA has the option of selling the donated parcel to help fund a shelter in another location.
Despite the difficulties of working in a deteriorating facility, NAAWA staff has received accolades from animal welfare organizations throughout the state and nationwide. All agreed a new shelter will be an asset to the community and region, and will save the lives of many more animal companions.
