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

Home

described by the resident. He stated that the simple addition of a sign could be a way to move forward. Parks & Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood stated that he has concern with that the area would be oversized for that purpose. He stated that if a timid dog area is designated, that would require a level of self-policing. He stated that the problem seems to be that there are some people that are not controlling their large, rambunctious dog while others have small timid dogs that are perhaps not suited to that environment. He commented that there are many areas where dogs can be off leash in Ramsey other than the dog park. He liked the suggestion of Councilmember Heineman that if there is a small dog area in the future, it be done with a tiny fence so that it is clear that is what the area is intended for, as that would prevent large dogs. He stated that the original request was to increase the size of the dog park, which they did. He stated that there is a sign on the front gate that mentions behavior and people may or may not pay attention to it. He commented that signs are often ignored. Commissioner Loss stated that he has two dogs, one medium and one large. He stated that he has never seen a small dog in the dedicated small dog area at the Coon Rapids dog park and that is the only dog park where he experienced a problem with other dogs. He stated that often the smaller dogs tend to be more aggressive. He stated that it was his understanding that the expansion of the dog park would be completely open, therefore he was surprised to see the fence between. He stated that he also likes the idea of adding another off-leash area in The COR. He commended the Commission for not making a kneejerk reaction and discussing the topic. Commissioner Leistico agreed that switching the use for one request would not make sense. She also recognized the concern that dedicating one side of the dog park would be too much space for little dogs. She suggested leaving the issue alone at this time and moving forward on another off- leash area in The COR. Commissioner Olson agreed that this discussion should be tabled, and the new off-leash area should be explored more. He noted that perhaps the new off-leash area could be split 70/30 between large and small dogs. Commissioner Barten stated that he did some research on this topic and while some dog park designers prefer to split the area for small and large dogs,many have the main park with additional special use area like there is at the dog park. He agreed that leaving the park as is seems to be the best way to go. Acting Chair Sis confirmed the consensus of the Commission to leave the dog park as is. He asked if the Commission would be interested in moving the second off-leash area up in priority. It was noted that it was planned for 2026. He stated that there is a demonstrable need within The COR and therefore planning for it to determine cost would seem reasonable. He believed the project should be moved to 2022. Parks&Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood responded that he believes the$20,000 estimate would seem reasonable. Park and Recreation Commission/November 18, 2021 Page 11 of 12