Rockland County Executive Ed Day’s budget proposal for next year includes $1.2 million in capital funds to build a new shelter that's double the size of the Hi Tor Animal Shelter in Pomona.

"The land is county-owned, so it will be a brand-new facility. What it means for these animals is they will be treated a lot better,” says Day.

The new shelter would be built right behind the Hi Tor Animal Shelter, which is so packed that the shelter had to build cages outside. The new shelter will be big enough for staff to take in even more animals but still have plenty of space for play time.

The budget now goes to the Legislature. If approved, officials plan to start building the new facility next fall.

The Legislature votes on the budget in December.