No decision made on whether to add dog park or where

Manager to obtain cost estimate

When Collier discussed creating a dog park in one of its parks in mid-July, more than 100 residents ranging from young people to grandparents came before the commissioners to express their views on the matter.

Residents argued over whether it was more important to have a playing field for sports like lacrosse or a dog park where people could exercise their pets.

Some suggested that parks should not be open to residents who don’t live in Collier, which is the largest the four communities that make up the Chartiers Valley School District.

At Collier’s workshop meeting on July 26, only three residents attended, in part to turn over money that was collected for park improvements.

Township manager Kyle Thauvette thought officials should hold off making a decision on a dog park until a feasibility study is done, but Commissioner Jason Oskamp said he didn't like either Kelly or Hilltop parks as possible choices for a dog park.

“I don’t like Kelly because it impacts our kids. Hilltop would impact our residents,” he said.

Commissioner Wayne Chiurazzi agreed. “The township still has to justify paying taxpayers dollars to get this thing done,” he said, estimating that the cost would be $20,000.

He added that he preferred a location along the Panhandle Trail.

Commissioner Wilson Durisko said, “I didn't like it before and I still don't like it. A dog park is not high on my list of priorities for the township.”

George Macino, board president, said, “I think Site 6 on the Panhandle Trail was our best option because of good access.” He added that his second choice would be to refund the donations received.

He said officials need to make a decision at the next meeting.

Mr. Thauvette said he would try to get a cost estimate for the proposed park.

“We have to decide where we want it to go,” Mr. Chiurazzi said.