VALPARAISO | It seems as though the Porter County Commissioners are going to have to scale back plans for a second building, which would ease crowding at the animal shelter.

The commissioners opened competitive bids this week for the project but found the offers were too pricey, said Commissioner Bob Harper, who has led recent reforms at the shelter.

The three bids ranged in price from $447,904 to $365,900.

Harper said he was looking for offers in the range of $200,000 to $250,000.

"I was surprised in this building climate," he said, adding he expected more competitive pricing.

The commissioners sought bids for a 2,200-square-foot building with 22 dog kennels and attached outside dog runs, according to drawings provided by the commissioners' office. The proposed building would be located between the existing shelter and Ind. 2, south of U.S. 30.

The hope has been to have the building up and in operation by the first of next year, Harper said.

He said the new building will be paid for with proceeds from the local income tax.