Grace Kirchner, Leader Correspondent
The Clintonville Common Council plans to discuss establishing a dog park in the city at its April 14 meeting.
City Park and Recreation Director Justin McCuly said this week he had researched potential sites for the park, which include the Pigeon Lake Wayside area off Eighth Street and Bucholtz Park, near the outdoor swimming pool.
Alderwoman Gloria Dunlavy said she favored the Pigeon Lake location because it was near a walking trail in Pickerel Point. People could take their dogs for a walk and for a free run in the park nearby, she said.
“This is an area in the city that is not being used for anything now,” Dunlavy said.
Alderman Jim Krause, however, expressed concerns that the Pigeon Lake area is a hot spot for blastomycosis, an illness that has affected dogs, cats, and humans in the area. He also questioned whether the area would be easily accessible for users.
Commission member Don Jirschele favored the Bucholtz Park location. He said people could take their dogs to the fenced park while family members enjoy the park’s other amenities.
Interim City Administrator Chuck Kell said having dogs so near ball games or other activities in the park could be problematic. Barking dogs also could be a disturbance, he said.
McCuly said a student at Fox Valley Technical College had volunteered to help with fund raising for the project, which he said likely would take a couple of years.