Committee of the Whole (July 19, 2021) & Council (July 26, 2021) Discuss Dog Park

At the July 19, 2021 Committee of the Whole meeting the Parks & Environmental Services Coordinator provided an overview of the written staff report, outlining a plan and budget options for a fenced dog park in Pond Park Corridor. Based on community feedback, staff outlined park features:

• a fenced 90m x 25m dog park;
• a water fountain;
• four benches;
• a gazebo;
• waste receptacles;
• dog bag dispensers and;
• natural agility features such as boulders and logs.

Council discussion includes:

• While other District's are trialling dog parks using temporary locations, the cost of doing so in Sooke is prohibitive. Even a temporary park would require infrastructure modifications, which are costly.
• Noise issues will be addressed with signage and Bylaw Officer attendance.
• There are funds available now to execute the project as presented.
• The park's location will be noted on District maps.
• Some residents near the proposed location are concerned that the park will invite instances of public drunkenness.
• If the gazebo and fountain were omitted from the plan, a savings of $20,000 would be realized.
• Members of the public have been asking for a fenced dog park since 2012.

Motions carried:

• THAT the Committee of the Whole recommend that Council authorize staff to proceed with the construction of a fenced dog park at 2276 Church Road.
• THAT the Committee of the Whole recommend that Council allocate up to an additional $45,000.00 to the dog park budget from Council contingency.
• THAT the Committee of the Whole recommend that Council allocate up to an additional $45,000.00 to the dog park budget from Council contingency.

At the July 26, 2021 Regular Council Meeting, Council continued discussion of the dog park, noting:

• Assurance that all locations have been evaluated, consultation has been ongoing for several years and the best interest of the community has been considered.
• It is anticipated that users will continue to self-regulate, in the management of their dogs within the park.
• Parking issues are a concern, staff will find opportunities to enhance and educate park users on park access.
• Recognition that neighbours are concerned with the proximity of the location to homes and the potential for increased users.
• Dog owners in the community have been advocating for a secure location for dogs to socialize and enjoy themselves.

Motion carried:

THAT Council authorize staff to proceed with the construction of a fenced dog park at 2276 Church Road