Agenda - Parks and Recreation Commission - 11/18/2021

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Chair Bennett agreed that is why he believes an overview of the existing dog park would make sense. He stated that they could begin with an attempt to use signage until the matter could be fully discussed by the Commission. Parks & Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood confirmed that staff could follow that consensus and bring the matter forward on the November agenda. He commented that there are many vacant parks in the community that can be used with dogs. He also noted that hockey rinks are also a good area for dogs. Commissioner Walker asked if there could be anything done immediately rather than waiting for the next meeting. Commissioner Barten explained that the second area was created in response to another issue that exists. He stated that situation also needs to continue to be considered. Commissioner Leistico commented that they need to make all the voices matter rather that providing immediate action on a resident request, as previous residents have brought forward different requests. Chair Bennett stated that signage is something that could be worked on right away, identifying the space for more timid dogs. He stated that it is important to find a solution that will work for all users in a long-term manner rather than continuing to respond to the most recent resident comment. Commissioner Leistico stated that the previous resident that provided input and brought forward the request for the expansion of the dog park had spoken with other users and provided that information to the City. Commissioner Walker referenced the hockey rinks at Central Park, which has boards up and could be used for dogs to be off -leash. Ms. Hassis commented that she should not have to go to another location, and it should be the owners of the more aggressive dogs that use the hockey rinks. Chair Bennett stated that the Commission is going to discuss the issue and find a solution that works for all users but if there is a concern from the resident for the safety of her dog, she can take her dog to the other area in the meantime. Ms. Hassis stated that the action should be to split the existing dog park area into one area for large dogs and one area for small dogs and the additional discussion could be the space to use for the more timid large dogs. She provided input on the breeds of dogs that have caused issues with her small dog. Commissioner Leistico commented that the suggestion for the hockey rink use was to provide an immediate solution for the resident. Commissioner Walker explained that would be a spot where the resident could take her dog right now to provide a solution. Park and Recreation Commission/October 14, 2021 Page 3 of 9