Dear Friends and Neighbors,

The fate of our local animal shelter, Charlie’s Place, now rests with six county commissioners who continue to fund many new initiatives — just not the shelter that serves both Gilpin and Clear Creek counties.

Both counties claim the shelter costs too much and isn’t open to the public enough, yet they fund only three full-time and one part-time position. That is extremely limited staffing for a facility expected to operate seven days a week.

Gilpin County argues its 20% share of operating costs — about $77,500 this year — is too high and suggests volunteers should take on more of the work. Clear Creek County says fixed costs are too high and asks the shelter to generate revenue, while simultaneously prohibiting additional staff who could help make that possible.

Charlie’s Place exists because longtime Georgetown resident Helen Buck donated the property specifically for an animal shelter. She envisioned a safe landing place for lost, abandoned, and surrendered animals until they could find new homes. The shelter is named after her beloved German Shepherd, Charlie.

Today, county leaders appear ready to walk away from that commitment to the citizens and animals of both counties.

The shelter’s budget is approximately $362,000, most of which covers personnel. Friends of Charlie’s Place (FOCP) contributes an additional $90,000–$100,000 each year, covering food, treats, enrichment items, all medical and dental care (including surgeries), dog training, and the twice monthly low-cost shot clinics. This support is possible only because of generous donations from residents and businesses who value the shelter’s work.

Everyone understands that budgets are tight. But while funding is found for new director positions, repeated management raises, new paid internships, and other county projects, there never seems to be money for the shelter that has served our community for 19 years. Next July marks its 20th anniversary — yet every recent budget cycle has become a fight for its survival.

Our communities deserve leaders who support essential local services rather than threaten them whenever new projects arise. Charlie’s Place is a vital, beloved part of Gilpin and Clear Creek counties, and losing it would be a loss felt by animals and residents alike.

Please write, email, or call your commissioners and let them know you value Charlie’s Place and the quality care it provides. Contact information is available at friendsofcharliesplace.org under the “Rescue the Shelter” tab.

Your voice matters, and now is the time to use it.

Sincerely,

Kathleen Ashpaugh

President, Friends of Charlie’s Place