Surveyor hired by county to set boundaries for Crisis Canines expansion

Jasper County hired a surveyor this past week in order to better set boundaries for the land leased to Crisis Canines of the Midlands and its expanded facility. County Auditor Jenna Jennings said the original idea was to map out the boundary lines, but officials felt it might be better to actually place pins.

“It’ll be an easement for you to put the building on the county’s land,” Jennings said. “This is an agreement for that easement and for (Jason Lowry of Lowry Land Services) to perform that work. That’ll give you some boundaries. You’ll be able to see exactly where you can put your building and driveways.”

Approximately 3 acres are going to be set aside for the nonprofit that pairs therapy dogs with first responders. These canines are trained to improve mental health for law enforcement and emergency response personnel. Dogs and their handlers work with their own agencies and their citizens.

In mid-November 2024, the Jasper County Board of Supervisors agreed to assist Crisis Canines in finding a new home. The growing organization approached the board asking for a fair price, and in turn supervisors made a counter-offer to give them the land at little to no cost, provided the county still owns the property.

County Attorney Scott Nicholson said officials struggled to find the exact parcel for the building without a land description. The survey would fix that issue.

“Since it’s our land, we should probably pay for the survey,” Nicholson said.

John Halferty, board president of Crisis Canines of the Midlands, said the land agreement with the county is a big deal for the organization. At this point, Crisis Canines is working with architects to design the building and is planning future fundraising campaigns to finance the construction.

Supervisor Brandon Talsma clarified the county is not creating a parcel but rather a land use easement. Which means if Crisis Canines ever vacates the building or dissolves its services, the county keeps the land. Officials noted this was done to avoid issues that arose when Jasper County Animal Rescue League closed.

The cost to complete the survey is $2,650. The facility is expected to be built where Quakerdale Youth Shelter and Jasper County Care Facility used to stand.