The agreement says the money is intended for “exclusively public purposes” and is not being given in exchange for naming rights, advertising, permits, regulatory action, preferential treatment or any other direct or indirect economic benefit. The donation marks a major step toward a long-term animal shelter solution in Ellis County, which has been without the same sheltering capacity since the SPCA of Texas agreement ended in April 2025. Under the agreement, Compass will donate the full $15 million to Ellis County no later than July 15, 2026. The county must place the money in a separate account and use it only for costs tied to building, maintaining and equipping an animal shelter in Ellis County. The agreement also says the county must engage an architectural firm for the shelter design no later than Jan. 1, 2027. If the donation is not used for creating or maintaining an animal shelter in the county, Ellis County agrees to refund the donation to Compass. Compass will not be responsible for building, operating or managing the shelter. The agreement states the company’s obligation is limited to funding the donation. The shelter may be owned by Ellis County or transferred to a local municipality within the county if officials determine that move serves the public purpose of the project.