Dog parks dominated the conversation at Penticton city council's most recent bi-weekly meeting, as municipal politicians deliberated where local pups should be able to play without a leash.
On Jan. 28, council approved three out of the four staff-recommended "leash-optional" spots but said it needed more information to make a final decision at Riverside Park.
The three approved locations are:
91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ¢ Skaha Lake Park 91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ“ Main 91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ“ 3661 Parkview St.
91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ¢ Skaha Lake Park 91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ“ East 91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ“ 3895 Lakeside Rd.
91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ¢ Water Treatment Plant entrance 91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ“ 1900 Penticton Ave.
As part of council's decision Tuesday, the current fenced dog area near Okanagan Park will be expanded by around 30 metres. A downtown location was not selected as a permanent leash-optional space, due to concerns over wear on turf and conflict of events.
At Riverside Park, Coun. Helena Konanz raised concerns over the lack of fencing along the location's two walkways.
"Unfortunately along the pathway there, dogs tend to run onto it if there's a bike going along there," Konanz said. "I would ask that at least a partial fence be built on that pathway."
After a long discussion 91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ” and multiple amendments to its motion 91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ” council agreed and deferred making Riverside Park a permanent leash-optional spot until staff provided more information on potential costs associated with adding fencing on both the paved and dirt paths.
In the meantime, the area will remain a leash-optional space until the decision is made, expected in the spring. The park is located at 187 Riverside Dr., near the newly-lighted skate park and basketball courts.
"Come summertime, certainly our tourists and locals are on that trail, so I totally support (adding fencing)," said Coun. Ryan Graham.
Konanz also suggested making Okanagan Lake Park a permanent leash-optional location, but only during Penticton's shoulder season. Her idea received little support from the rest of city council.
"The unfortunate part about Okanagan Park is that there are no barriers to the people walking, running and biking," said Coun. Campbell Watt. "I think that puts people that are uncomfortable around dogs in a really awkward position."
The city launched its "leash-optional pilot project" on March 1, 2024, inviting dog owners to bring their pets to designated spots across the city.
A public engagement process saw a total of 1,200 respondents participate and roughly 65 per cent support the leash-optional areas.
91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵœStaff will continue to work closely with animal control to maintain a visible presence, ensuring users adhere to rules and remain in control of their dogs," said Scott Boyko, the city91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ™s public works manager.
