HSNEI breaks ground for the area's first animal shelter

(Left to right): HSNEI Board Members Elaine Gaul, Kari Goodno, Sarah Haugen, Deb Morris, Decorah Mayor Don Arendt, Board member Senia Sikkink, Loma Carlson, HSNEI President Kim Powell, Board members Linda Neuzil, Brenda Flatjord, Katie Houlihan, Brian Swestka, Dick Davenport, Pat Brockett. (Front): Fritz Carlson

The Humane Society of Northeast Iowa broke ground Saturday for the area's first-ever animal shelter.  Rain and storms didn't deter over 40 supporters and volunteers from attending the ceremony.

The "HSNEI Love & Friendship Adoption Center" will be located on Millennium Road in the Decorah Business Park.  The 4,700 square foot building will be able to house up to 100 cats and dogs once it opens.  The Adoption Center is projected to be complete in Fall 2014.

The shelter will be named after donors Loma and Fritz Carlson, who named the center the "HSNEI Love & Friendship Adoption Center." The "L & F" also stands for "Loma & Fritz" and for a place where "Lost" animals "Find" a home.

Decorah Mayor Don Arendt congratulated HSNEI on the groundbreaking, thanking the Carlson's for their role in the success of the capital campaign. Decorah Jobs Board Member Cindy Simpson shared her congratulations on the part of Decorah Jobs, which donated two acres of land to HSNEI.

See more information at www.hsnei.org