While it’s still going to be in Boitanio Park, the designated location of the new dog park is being slightly altered. It’s further southwest than the original location between the skate park and picnic shelter.
The dog park committee did a walkabout with city staff and determined a more suitable location, coun. Laurie Walters said. “It had more character, more trees for shading and was all around more suitable so we put forward the recommendation.”
A report from the general manager of planning and operations outlines there is $15,000 put aside to cover the cost of a fence for the park.
“The committee will fundraise for any extra costs. It might not all happen at once, but our intent is to fence the area and get it up and running,” Walters explained. “Irrigation, benches and other items will have to be covered with fundraising.”
There are many more details to be ironed out around advertising, and signage, and council will receive more reports as the project develops.
Most of council approved the new location; however, Coun. Danica Hughes voted against it.
“I’m not opposed to a dog park but I am opposed to it being in Boitanio Park because of the apartments and residences that surround Boitanio Park that are not allowed to have animals,” Hughes said, adding if the city is thinking long term it would be better to locate the park at the end of Oliver Street so it can tie into trails.
“That can be the next one,” suggested Walters.