On Monday the King County Council approved the terms of an updated regional system for animal control, sheltering and licensing. The adopted ordinance authorizes the executive to enter into a new interlocal agreement with King County cities. So far, 25 cities have sent the county letters indicating their willingness to participate in the system under the new terms.

The updated system includes new formulas for computing the costs that cities pay, requires cities to adopt similar licensing fees and animal control codes, and allows cities to purchase enhanced animal control services beyond the basic level of service. The new interlocal agreements will run from 2013 through 2016, with an option to renew for two additional years.

King County began work in 2007 to reform the provision of animal services. In 2010, the county reached an agreement with 27 cities to provide services under a new regional model. The restructured Regional Animal Services of King County (RASKC) has made significant improvements in services, include reducing euthanasia rates below 15 percent.