Committee recommends signage to create 7–9 a.m. small‑dog off‑leash hours at Southpointe Park

Parks staff presented a plan March 25 to create early‑morning off‑leash hours for small dogs at Southpointe Park. The request follows public comment from dog‑park users who said larger dogs dominate the fenced dog park and small dogs need a safe, scheduled time to play.

Staff outlined two options: option A, a signage‑only approach (estimated cost about $300) that could be implemented within a month to designate a 7–9 a.m. small‑dog area near Smith and Molinsky; and option B, a full improvements package (benches, concrete pads, bag dispensers, landscaping) with an estimated cost of about $15,000 to be considered in the FY27 budget process.

Parks staff recommended moving forward immediately with option A while seeking budget authority for option B next year. Commissioners supported the signage plan and asked staff to include bag dispensers and trash receptacles under operating funds where appropriate. The committee voted to send a positive recommendation to the commission for option A and to consider option B during the FY27 budget.

Next steps: staff will implement signage and associated minimal operating elements and will include the enhanced improvements proposal in the FY27 budget process for commission consideration.