The City of Salina says it has spent $9,382 on legal services related to the matter involving two Salina Animal Services leaders who remain on paid leave while facing animal cruelty charges, according to written answers recently published by the city.

The information came in response to questions raised during the Aug. 10 Salina City Commission Citizens Forum.

A resident specifically asked which fund was being used to pay defense attorney fees for the two Animal Services directors and how much had been spent.

The city's written response states:

"Salaries for these employees are paid from the Animal Shelter budget, which is part of the Parks Department budget within the General Fund. To date, the City has expended $9,382 for legal services related to this matter."

The city did not characterize the entire $9,382 as defense attorney fees. Its response used the broader description "legal services related to this matter." The city did not provide a further breakdown of those expenses.

The city said it could not provide additional comment because the situation involves active criminal and personnel matters.

Paid Leave Costs Not Included in City's Answer

The $9,382 figure does not provide the total amount of city expenditures associated with the situation.

Both employees remain on paid leave, according to the question and response published by the city. The city confirmed that their salaries are being paid from the Animal Shelter budget, which falls under the Parks Department within the city's General Fund.

The city's response did not state how much has been paid in salaries and benefits during the period of leave.

Determining that amount would require additional payroll records showing the employees' compensation and the length of time each has remained on paid leave.

Animal Shelter Privatization Proposals Due Sept. 10

The city also provided an update on the possibility of transferring operation of the Salina Animal Shelter to a private organization.

According to the city, a Request for Proposals has been issued for potential privatization of the shelter, with proposals due Sept. 10, 2026.

After proposals are received and reviewed, the Salina City Commission will determine how to proceed.

The legal expenses, paid leave and potential privatization come as Salina Animal Services continues to face scrutiny following criminal charges involving two employees and a recently released independent assessment of shelter operations.

Salina311 is seeking additional records to determine the total salary and benefit costs associated with the employees' paid leave.