Since our last update in April, not very much has changed. The University site is no longer in the running, but the nearby new Columbia site has final approval but the park board has not yet announced an opening date. Although three sites are open, we believe their plan is hold of on a public grand opening announcement until this fourth site is ready to go. A professional facilitator has been hired by the park board to assist with the negotiations. The park board has pledged to consider the conlusion of this committee binding.
Current reports are that there is strong support of a sixth district dog park within the committee.
We regret that this is necessary, but we cannot in good conscience agree to accept responsibility for managing an inadequate program. We encourage any spontaneous stewardship activity by the public, as this is an essential part of any successful off-leash program. Those of you who have already purchased your off-leash permit have probably received a letter from the park board announcing these openings. Our apologies for not telling you first, but our group only found out about the official status of these sites through inquiries from members, and by receiving the same letter ourselves. The position statement is reproduced in full on this page, following this update.