Summerland’s dog park divisions flare up as weather warms
Opponents of a new dog park on the Summerland waterfront are keeping the heat on public officials in a bid to see it moved.
Representatives of a group called Protect Peach Orchard Park appeared in front of council Monday to present the results of an online petition and refresh their request for a new location.
The dog park was created in 2023 by erecting temporary fencing around a grassy patch of Peach Orchard Park – and the complaints began soon after.
“Many families live within the natural amphitheater above the park. The large dog park has been forced inside one of our community parks zoned for everyone. Activities for the greater number of community members have been terminated, affecting their needs and quality of life,” said Rachel Gauthier on behalf of PPOP.
“The delicate grassy land sits upon a flood plain. There is considerable damage despite extraordinary measures to mitigate. Moreover, there remain pressing questions regarding dog control measures, the adequacy of bylaw support, the extent of public consultation, effects on ecosystem, and alignment with district planning initiatives.”
Council also heard an online petition run by PPOP attracted 1,844 signatures on the Change.org platform, although the petition hasn’t been formally presented to the District of Summerland and it’s unclear if it would meet all criteria for acceptance, including names and addresses of all signatories. In the meantime, PPOP is urging the District of Summerland to work with the Agricultural Land Commission and even private landowners to come up with a better spot for the dog park.
“Summer is upon us. It is time to dismantle the fence and return Peach Orchard Park to all,” said Gilmour.
Coun. Adrienne Betts acknowledged the group’s concerns, but showed no sign of bending to them.
“This has been a hard issue in Summerland. It’s quite divisive. People are really passionate about the dog parks… but it’s also about finding the right balance for our neighbours,” said Betts.
Council last year earmarked $50,000 for construction of a new dog park in its 2024 budget and resolved to leave the fences in place at Peach Orchard Park until the new site is open.