NEW CUMBERLAND — Hancock County commissioners took the next step Thursday in transitioning operations of the county’s animal shelter to the Jefferson County Humane Society.

As part of their regular meeting, commissioners unanimously approved a lease and operating agreement with the JCHS for the Hancock County Animal Shelter. Commissioners approved the Ohio-based nonprofit’s bid Oct. 9.

“The first contract is an eight-month agreement,” Commission President Eron Chek explained, announcing there are plans to sign the contract Oct. 31, at a time to be determined.

Such a term would take the contract through the end of June, and the commission’s current fiscal year. There is no automatic renewal of the agreement, so future negotiations would be needed.

Commissioners opted in July to begin a search for a nonprofit organization to operate the animal shelter, located on Gas Valley Road, going through two rounds of bids as part of the process.

Founded in 1915, the Jefferson County Humane Society was formed to be an advocate for animals in Jefferson County and, originally, the county’s children. The organization has managed Jefferson County’s animal shelter since 2010, with the county employing dog wardens and the humane society providing for other employees, as well as all aspects of care and other programs for animals at the shelter. In recent years, it has launched a veterinarian medical program for animals at the shelter which offers low-cost medical services to the public.

“Together, I think we’ll be able to offer great services for the animals,” Chek said.

Commissioner Paul Cowey expressed hope for an expansion of programs, such as those currently offered by the JCHS, to better serve the county’s animal population.

JCHS Development Manager Brandi DeNoon-Damewood previously noted plans include testing out some of those programs, while determining which existing programs in Hancock County will be beneficial.

Under the terms of the lease agreement approved Thursday, the county commission will continue to own the animal shelter and property, while the humane society will be tasked with care for the animals, maintaining the facilities and other services.

“It’s been a long time coming, and we’re looking forward to the future,” said Commissioner Tommy Ogden.

Officials have noted there are plans for the county to continue providing budgeted funds, which could include the return of a levy to support the shelter, while the involvement of the humane society would provide an avenue for fundraising previously unavailable to the county.