Georgetown Animal Shelter to Join Williamson County Regional Shelter in New Partnership

May 13, 2025 (Williamson County, Texas) — In a significant step forward for regional animal welfare, the Williamson County Commissioners  Court has approved an updated Interlocal Agreement (ILA) with the City of Georgetown to formalize the city’s participation in the Williamson  County Regional Animal Shelter (WCRAS). This partnership enhances the county’s capacity to provide comprehensive animal care services and  reflects a shared commitment to the well-being of animals across the region. The city councils of Cedar Park, Georgetown, Hutto, Leander and  Round Rock approved the agreement last month.  

A History of Collaboration 

The WCRAS was established in 2007 through a collaborative effort among Williamson County and several partner cities, including Cedar Park,  Hutto, Leander and Round Rock. The shelter serves as the primary resource facility for lost, unhoused and rehomed pets in the region. Over the  years, the partnership has been instrumental in delivering effective sheltering services and community resources. 

In 2019, the WCRAS underwent a $10.5 million renovation and expansion, which added a new adoption center and increased capacity to  accommodate the growing needs of the community. This expansion included the addition of 64 canine kennels and 93 feline kennels,  significantly enhancing the shelter’s ability to care for animals at that time. 

Georgetown’s Commitment to Regional Partnership 

Recognizing the benefits of regional collaboration, the City of Georgetown proposed joining the WCRAS through a bond election held on Nov. 7,  2023. Proposition C, which allocated $15 million for this purpose, was approved by 67.14% of Georgetown voters. The proposition provided  flexibility, allowing the city to either join the regional shelter or expand its existing facility. City officials expressed a preference for joining the  WCRAS to share operational costs and improve service efficiency. 

Following the bond approval, the City of Georgetown and Williamson County engaged in discussions to formalize the partnership. The newly  approved ILA outlines the terms of Georgetown’s participation, including financial commitments and operational responsibilities. Georgetown’s  involvement is expected to enhance shelter capacity and streamline services for residents. 

Looking Ahead 

The updated ILA ensures that Georgetown residents will benefit from expanded shelter services, including lost pet support, adoption programs  and community resources. The partnership also allows for shared resources and expertise, fostering a more efficient and effective approach to  animal welfare in the region. The transition of services is expected to occur in mid-July.

“Since 2007, the partnership between Williamson County, Leander, Cedar Park, Round Rock and Hutto has been incredibly successful. We are  looking forward to expanding the partnership with the City of Georgetown, which shares our desire to provide excellent care for our animals,”  said Precinct 3 Commissioner Valerie Covey. “Welcoming the City of Georgetown to the Regional Animal Shelter will expand the resources  available, allowing us to keep WCRAS a ‘No-Kill Shelter’.” 

“We are happy to see this merger moving forward,” Georgetown Mayor Josh Schroeder said. “Joining the Williamson County Regional Animal  Shelter is a big win for our community. This partnership means better care for our animals and more resources to help them find loving homes.  And with the regional shelter right here in Georgetown, it just makes good sense for our people—and our pets.”  

The Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter is located at 1855 SE Inner Loop, Georgetown, and is open to the public for adoptions,  volunteering and community engagement programs. 

For more information about the shelter and its services, please visit www.wilcotx.gov/pets.