INDIANAPOLIS (AP) – The city of Indianapolis is proposing increasing funding at the state's largest animal shelter to improve conditions.

The Department of Public Safety estimates $1.5 million is needed to address findings that the Indianapolis Animal Care and Control shelter is unsanitary, understaffed and underfunded. 

The Indianapolis Star reports that (http://indy.st/1CffilK0 budget documents show most of the money should go toward hiring 24 new employees, with $370,000 for supplies and training.

The proposal suggests the shelter hire veterinary technicians for the first time, as well as a few animal care technicians to clean cages and feed the animals.

It also calls for a $25,000 increase in the lead veterinarian's salary. The position currently pays $65,000 and has been vacant since March.

The proposal is expected to be considered next week.