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Sorry, Blind River... dog park is not happening

Council rejects idea of spending $60,000 to establish it and potentially $11,000 to operate it annually
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Consideration for the creation of a dog park in Blind River has been put on a leash with council not wanting to move forward with any plan for a facility for dogs.

Council made the move at its meeting Monday evening after receiving a lengthy report from Karen Bittner, director of facilities and community services, on a dog park which included an estimate of $60,000 to establish it and a potential annual cost of about $11,000 to operate it.

The report was based, in part, on inquiries with other municipalities that currently operate dog parks including Elliot Lake, Sault Ste. Marie and Sudbury.

Bittner also noted that she could provide further information if council wanted to explore establishing a dog park in Blind River.

Councillor Paula Summers said she could not support moving ahead with a dog park or getting more information on the subject. The councillor was apprehensive about spending money on the project while the town is looking to save money on its service delivery procedures and options contained in the town’s strategic plan report.

“I don’t feel we require anything else,” Coun. Summers said. “I feel we have a lot on our plate right now and I don’t believe spending $60,000 – I believe is what the amount was – would be a good way to go at this point in time. I feel later on down the road we could visit this again.”

Coun. Steven Wells agreed.

“This came to council about two or three years ago,” Coun. Wells said, referring to previous public requests for the establishment of a dog park including a more recent request. “At the time we felt we couldn’t support it, but we did think that there might be an option for a community group of dog owners that might be willing to take on the development, operation of a dog park. We’re trying to facilitate other organizations in the community so the municipality isn’t carrying the load but we’re certainly willing to partnership with other groups if they are willing to come forward for the operation of a dog park and perhaps we could find a site for it that is suitable for both parties. Rather than spending taxpayer money on a dog park, especially for a dog park that would not be for all taxpayers. If there is a dog group that would follow through with such a project I think that would be a better approach.”

Mayor Sally Hagman said she, as a dog walker herself, hasn’t found a “lack of places for our dogs.”

“I agree taxpayer dollars should not be expended on our furry friends.”

Mayor Hagman thanked Bittner for her “extensive report,” and urged residents walking their dogs to “remember to pick up after them.”

Council voted against a recommendation to further explore the dog park option.



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About the Author: Kris Svela

Kris Svela has worked in community newspapers for the past 36 years covering politics, human interest, courts, municipal councils, and the wide range of other topics of community interest
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