Trial and error
This will be the first public dog park in Floyd County and officials are testing out elements gleaned from similar facilities in other areas.
The design by Broome and Cowling includes doggie bag stations, and they’re expecting to schedule three or four flea-and-tick treatments a year. Hours would be from dawn to dusk. No lighting is planned.
“You can set the fobs so they won’t be active at night,” Assistant County Manager Gary Burkhalter noted.
A prominent sign would display park rules, which are still being drafted. Aggressive dogs, or owners, may get a warning or two before being banned. Dogs in heat will likely have to sit out for a while. A serious
attack would mean immediate revocation of access.
City Commissioner Milton Slack suggested adding a requirement that regular users commit some work-time.
“They should have a buy-in,” Slack said. “Form something like a posse to help maintain the area.”
Wallace agreed, adding that Broome is working on partnerships with local nonprofits and schools. Cowling said Parks and Rec would also look at educational field trips and activities.
“There are things we can do from a programming standpoint. Howl-o-ween springs to mind,” he said with a smile.
County Commissioner Wright Bagby said he envisions a regular gathering spot where dog owners eventually come to know each other and their pets, somewhat like a neighborhood park. Davis suggested adding an open-access dog park to the agricultural center, which is set for funding through the 2017 SPLOST, and Mayor Jamie Doss said it’s a possibility.
“We will have another dog park if we get this one off to a good start,” Doss said.
Before work can start, the county must call for bids to provide materials, following the standard procurement process. The new facility also will have to be added to the Rome-Floyd Parks and Recreation agreement, which spells out which entity is responsible for maintenance and repairs.
The standing agreement requires an annual joint meeting of the Rome and Floyd County commissions and the Parks and Rec board, which is expected to be scheduled for early March.