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DOG PARK STAFF DEMAND <br />This document was prepared for the September 8, 2025 Parks & Environmental Commission meeting <br />with input from the City’s Public Works Department. <br />Below are additional considerations to keep in mind for ongoing discussions regarding a City Dog Park. <br />SITE CONSIDERATIONS <br />Location access <br />Foot traffic interactions with surrounding activities such as playgrounds and ballfields may present <br />safety and sanitation concerns, particularly regarding the control of off-leash dogs, potential dog-owner <br />conflicts, and potential odor impacts to other park users. <br />Access paths should ideally support vehicle traffic to facilitate delivery of maintenance materials (e.g. <br />wood chips) and removal of pet waste. Modifications to existing trails will be necessary to accommodate <br />maintenance vehicles and equipment. If vehicle access is not possible, materials may need to be <br />brought/removed manually. <br />Trail infrastructure longevity <br />In the presence of a park trail, accessing the dog park will require the use of the adjacent asphalt trail to <br />transport mulch, fencing materials, and service the waste dumpster using trucks, heavy equipment or <br />light utility vehicles. This additional repeated use will accelerate surface wear, cause cracking, or <br />degrade trail edges and require repairs sooner than anticipated. <br />MAINTENANCE NEEDS <br />Ground cover (mulching) <br />Mulching is required to maintain clean, mud-free conditions and minimize odor and wear on the soil. <br />Replenishment frequency may be weekly or monthly depending on weather and usage levels. Wood <br />chips would need to be purchased frequently. Due to access limitations, 2 crew members would be <br />required for delivery and distribution and may require manual labor. <br />Waste management <br />A dedicated dumpster for pet waste will be necessary, ideally placed in a discreet yet accessible location. <br />This dumpster should be emptied at least once a week, with increased frequency in summer months or <br />during periods of high usage. Waste bag dispensers and signage must be installed and refilled according <br />to demand. <br />Fencing and infrastructure <br />Routine inspection and repair of the perimeter fencing, gates, and latches are essential to ensure <br />security and user safety. Fencing, gates, and latches should be visually inspected at least weekly and <br />repairs made immediately for identified issues. Repairs may include but are not limited to: patching <br />holes, reinforcing posts, adjusting gate hardware to prevent escape or injury.