Location and funding for the dog park approved

By SEAN d'OLIVEIRA |South Florida Sun-Sentinel
October 2, 2008

The City Commission recently approved the location of and funding for the long-awaited dog park – east of the fire station, at the corner of Northeast 10th Street and Federal Highway, near the city's airport.

The first proposed location, Community Park at 2001 NE 10th St. ,was opposed by area residents and the city had to propose a different site.

"In a way, changing locations is a blessing," said Lisa Hamburg, a Pompano resident and dog park advocate. "It's larger and the parking is better."

Hamburg first suggested having a dog park to the Pompano Beach City Commission in March 2007 and said she was pleased to know her dream is closer to reality.

"I'm so relieved, I can't even tell you," Hamburg said.

Commissioner Rex Hardin, who originally proposed the latest site, said he was content that the dog park received the approval of the commission and that the new location will solve residents' previous concerns.

"It solves a lot of problems with Community Park and eases minds of residents and a lot of the park users at Community Park," Hardin said.

The initial cost of the park is $51,580, with an $8,400 annual recurring cost to maintain and operate it, said Rob McCaughan, Pompano Beach public works director.

Along with approving the site and funding, commissioners agreed that the park should be free and available to everyone. But there are still minor issues that must be worked out before construction can begin, McCaughan said.

Commissioners must amend the Capital Improvement Plan, which McCaughan expects to be on ther consent agenda. Also, environmental concerns, such as making sure there are no wild animals on the site that will be affected by the dogs, must be worked out.

Following that, McCaughan said he would start the bidding process later in October and begin purchasing park equipment. The next step then would be to install fencing around the park in November, with construction to start by the end of the year.

"We're finally going to have a tremendous asset for the city," Hardin said.

The success of the dog park will depend on the dog owners who use and help maintain the park, McCaughan said. Judging by their determination and organization to gain a dog park in the city, McCaughan said he is confident that dog park advocates will maintain a first-class facility.

This article is from the Feb 28th edition of the Observer

Pompano to spend between $50,000 and $78,000 for dog park

By David Volz

Pompano Beach residents who want a place for their dogs to play and socialize will get their wish.

The Pompano Beach City Commission voted to establish a dog area on 1.5 acres at Community Park. Robert McCaughan, director of public works for the city, presented ten options for the dog park in the city's parks and how they were rated as a possible site. The rating found that Community Park would be the best option.

There are two options for developing the dog park, according to McCaughan. One option would cost about $50,000 while a second option would cost about $78,000.

Members of the Pompano Dog Park attended the meeting and were satisfied with the results. There are about 40 dog owners who have been active in supporting the dog park.

"Pompano Beach needs a dog park," Melanie Salzgeber said. "The city provides tennis courts, basketball courts, swimming pools and other amenities for people who like to play these sports. It should provide a dog park for the many people who want a place for their dogs. This will give people a place to take their dogs off leash."

Lisa Hamburg, a leader of the Dog Pack agreed. "There is a tremendous need for a dog park in Pompano Beach," she said. "There is an underserved group of people who need this park. It will be good for the city."

Resident Ed Stanton spoke out angrily against the park. "I don't think the taxpayers should be required to pay for this dog park," he said. "I don't think people and dogs are equal. This will cost the city too much money."

Other residents spoke in favor of having a dog park but disputed its location. Some feared the dogs would pose a threat to walkers and joggers in the area. Other people thought the city's tax money should be spent to address other city needs.

Commissioner George Brummer expressed concerns about the lack of a hold harmless agreement. "I know the people here are responsible dog owners," he said. "But what if someone is not responsible and their dog bites another dog or another person? The city could be liable."

Pompano moves forward with plans for dog park

By Linda Trischitta |South Florida Sun-Sentinel

January 24, 2008

POMPANO BEACH - Canine playtime advocates are a few steps closer to having a city-built dog run in Community Park after the City Commission unanimously agreed Tuesday night to have planners confirm the costs of creating and operating a park.

"I am thrilled with tonight," said Melanie Salzgeber, who has appeared three times in nearly three months before city leaders about her desire for a dog park.

She was joined by about 50 supporters who appeared in white T-shirts in the municipal auditorium. "It's been an uphill battle, but I think it will go forward."

Robert McCaughan, self-designated "spokesdog," who is director of public works administration, presented draft plans to the commission.

A request for proposals from private firms to bid on operating a park was issued last year, but no responses were received, his written report said.

The southeast corner of Community Park, roughly 1.4 acres, was chosen after other sites were eliminated because of purchase price, inadequate parking or inadequate size.

The proposed dog-leg shaped parcel parallel to Federal Highway would be fenced up to 6 feet high and have a sidewalk to provide access for the disabled.

The park would have a pet drinking fountain, benches, a bulletin board and lighting. Estimated costs are $50,000 to build, with annual operating charges for insurance, fee collection, cleanup bags and water, electric and grounds maintenance of up to $28,000, McCaughan said.

Vice Mayor E. Pat Larkins and Commissioner George Brummer both thought costs would be higher than estimated and said there are other, more basic needs in the city, such as improving water delivery in District 4.

Brummer, who voiced concerns about safety, cited a recent South Florida Sun-Sentinel report about a pit bull attack on a greyhound in December at Barkham at Markham Dog Park in Sunrise.

"What if a dog that bites has rabies?" asked Brummer, who kept a dog for 16 years that was unfriendly toward its own kind.

But after an hour of debate between officials and the public, both eventually gave qualified support to the idea. City staffers will analyze insurance and user fees and report to commissioners at a future meeting.

Linda Trischitta can be reached at ljtrischitta@sun-sentinel.com or 954-356-4233.

Commissioner Hardin has purchased the gold standard book on dog park design and rules to aid in the construction of our park.

    I want to publicly thank Commissioner Hardin for being the champion of our cause!.....Lisa Hamburg

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