Six members of the Metropolitan King County Council on Monday introduced legislation directing the County Executive to close the county’s animal shelters by April 1, 2010. The move also would end animal control services to the cities by that same date unless new agreements are made that allow the county to recover the full costs of field services.

The motion, if approved, would close the county’s shelters at Crossroads and in Kent.

“After four reports, including today’s audit, that outline extensive management inadequacies and a chaotic work environment, it is time we transition the dogs and cats in our care to a provider that can demonstrate the ability to run a model animal welfare program,” said Councilmember Julia Patterson.

“It is time for a change,” said Council Vice Chair Bob Ferguson. “The [Bellevue-based] Seattle Humane Society’s offer to take responsibility for the animals in our care is one proposal that could create a win-win for the animals and the county.”

“We will pursue seamless quality of service for the animals, for owners and for prospective pet owners,” said Council Vice Chair Jane Hague, who represents a portion of Bellevue on the county council.

King County Auditor Cheryle Broom on Monday released a performance audit of the King County Animal Care and Control program that found that despite some improvements at the county’s primary animal shelter in Kent, several problems still exist in its leadership, organization and operation.

In anticipation of the flood threat in the Green River Valley, the County Executive has already announced his plan to relocate animals from the shelter in Kent and close the facility by Nov. 1. He has proposed the transition of both animal sheltering and animal control services to a new entity by June 30, 2010.

The proposed legislation has been referred to the Council’s Committee of the Whole, which anticipates holding a briefing as soon as Nov. 2.