Staff is proposing to explore more fully the design and budget impact of an off leash dog park in King City; specifically in the King Station area. Experience in other communities indicates that this amenity is appreciated. I often drive by the one in Aurora (Industrial Park/St. Johns SDRD) and observe that it is a well used site for dog owners to meet & talk and I see that the dogs are getting great exercise. For me the issue is cost to create and ongoing maintenance cost; hence I am totally supportive of more analysis.
You can read the report here. And I strongly encourage you to voice your opinion on the issue by attending Monday evening’s Council; if you cannot attend submit by email your comments to the Clerk. (ksmyth@king.ca). And, of course, let me know your ideas on the subject.
If you read the report you will see that Staff’s preliminary assessment included a park at Cold Creek. If this had been their choice (as opposed to King Station) I would not be supportive as Cold Creek is a conservation area and already have challenges with off leash dogs running through areas which are habitats to species at risk etc.
I believe that an off leash park for dogs is required in King City & the location at Station Rd. would be perfect. Although we do not own a dog of our own, we often take our grandaughter to an off leash park in Niagara Falls where they have the park separated by a fence. Visitors without dogs are welcome and she enjoys playing with the little ones. One side of the park is for small dogs & the other for large dogs. I feel that would be an important requirement having watched the antics of both sizes. That way, the little ones are protected. Our son has a dog & we sometimes keep the dog for a few days and it would be wonderful if we could take him to the park to meet other dogs when he visits.
I appreciate your comment and particularly hearing your ideas about design. I will pass on to those looking at this concept.