That the Community and Operations Services Committee recommend to City Council:
Whereas at its meeting of January 29, 2024, and by way of Item CO-24-05, Council directed staff to investigate the possibility of installing temporary fencing and signage for a neighbourhood level off leash dog park pilot project at Southmead Park; and,
Whereas City “Guidelines for the Design and Placement of Off-Leash Areas” (“Guidelines”), are referenced by staff to guide the decision-making process when considering the suitability of off-leash areas; and,
Whereas the guidelines are based on industry best practice for the Health and Safety of dogs and the public, and;
Whereas the need for designated areas for off-leash dog parks should be in alignment with guidelines to ensure balance with the safety and needs of other park users, park programming, the environment, accessibility, and the community as a whole; and,
Whereas City staff have reviewed Council’s direction in accordance with the Guidelines and have identified the following concerns with the installation of temporary fencing and signage for an off-leash area at Southmead Park:
- Southmead Park is approximately three kilometers from the newly constructed off-leash area at Cordova Park;
- The close proximity to a playground, neighbouring properties, trails and walkways;
- The three existing soccer fields are fully permitted;
- The existing parking lot is not designed to support the addition of an off-leash dog park;
- Temporary fencing would not meet the minimum standard of providing adequate security for both dog owners and other park users;
- Budget and resources constraints; and,
Therefore pursuant to Item CO-24-30 a pilot project for a neighbourhood off-leash dog park at Southmead Park not be implemented, and that consideration of off-leash dog parks be considered as part of future Parks Development and in accordance with City Guidelines