Residents petition for dog park at Geiger Park, present plans to parks department

On Sept. 10 residents asked the Town of Babylon to create a dog park at Geiger Park in Deer Park, presenting a petition and conceptual plans to town officials.
Why it matters: Speakers said a dog park would increase exercise, social connections and provide nearby pet amenities for residents of new apartments near the train station.
Karen Perrone said she submitted a petition with 665 signatures from residents who live near Geiger Park and elsewhere in the town. She described outreach materials, a short presentation with example park designs and possible placement away from playgrounds and gated water‑park areas. Perrone noted she was told by town staff that dogs are allowed in non‑gated parts of the park but said some grounds workers had recently told residents to leave.
Parks‑oriented proponents emphasized health and community benefits. Perrone cited Humane Society and CDC guidance in support of dog‑park benefits and said she prepared a packet of examples for board members. Kristen Shuster asked the board to "give our community the opportunity to have something we do all want" and described the dog park as a unifying, family‑friendly proposal.
Discussion vs. decision: Perrone said she provided a packet and the parks department agreed to follow up; the supervisor asked town parks staff to contact her for further discussion. No formal vote or commitment of funds was recorded at the meeting.
What’s next: Parks staff will review the petition and Perrone's materials and follow up with her to discuss possible locations and design details.