Grace Kirchner, Leader Correspondent
The Clintonville Park and Recreation Committee voted this week to recommend the Common Council approve plans for creating a dog park on a site near the Clintonville Area Waste Service location off Seventh Street.
The committee also suggested a fundraising campaign, with a goal of $18,000, should begin as soon as possible.
Katie Kettenhoven, a Fox Valley Technical College student who has lobbied the city for a dog park, told the committee that she found, as of April 21, there were 493 dogs licensed in the city. She said the city needs a safe, secure place where “dogs can be dogs.”
Justin McAuly, park and recreation department director, said fencing for the area would cost about $14,000. He also estimated signage would cost about $1,000 and maintenance about $3,000 to start. Most of the maintenance will eventually be taken care of by volunteers, he said.
Kettenhoven said other communities have Friends of the Dog Park organizations that help with fundraising, maintenance and promotion. Grants also might be available, she said.
Kettenhoven said the area would be large enough to have separate areas for small and large dogs. She also noted there is only one residence nearby, noise would not be a problem and there is ample room for parking. Owners would be responsible and liable for their dogs. Dogs in heat would be prohibited, as would food and glass bottles.
McAuly said he has been approached several times by citizens who would like a dog park.
Alderman John Wilson said he favored the park because it would help keep dogs out of the city parks.
The council is expected to consider the proposal when it meets at 6 p.m. Tuesday at City Hall, 50 10th St.