Congressman Elton Gallegly helps Cyndy Treutelaar, president of the Humane Society of Ventura County board, shovel the first pile of dirt.

The Humane Society of Ventura County broke ground on Aug. 18 for its Harry Valentine Visitors Center that will help the local nonprofit organization better care for the needs of animals countywide.

The new 2,500-square-foot building will house several employee offices, reception area, conference room, gift shop, storage area and new bathrooms. Made possible through a $2.4 million donation from the estate of Harry Valentine, the building is expected to be completed in about a year. Crews then plan to remodel the HSVC’s current building to expand its spay-neuter clinic.

“It’s a long day coming, and a splendid day for the Humane Society,” Don Buffon, Vice President of the HSVC Board, told the crowd of about 100 HSVC administrators, staff, volunteers and supporters of the Ojai shelter.

Rep. Elton Gallegly (R-Simi Valley) joined HSVC Board President Cyndy Treutelaar and board members in the ceremonial groundbreaking. Bishop William Downey of Our Lady and All Angels Liberal Catholic Church in Ojai blessed the ground, saying, “May this be a place where creatures can find sanctuary and safety.”

Gallegly, a staunch animal rights supporter, told the crowd that people are divided on most political matters facing this country, “but the one thing most everyone agrees on is the animal issue, and folks like you make things like this happen.”

The shelter and clinic will remain open during construction.

The Humane Society of Ventura County is located at 402 Bryant St. in Ojai. For more information, call 656-5031.