HomeMy WebLinkAbout12.B. Off-Leash Dog Park Project
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CITY OF SHAKOPEE
Memorandum
To: Mayor and City Council
Mark McNeill, City Administrator
From: Andrea Weber, Parks and Recreation landscape Design
Subject: Off-leash Dog Park Project
Meeting Date: January 02, 2007
INTRODUCTION
This agenda item seeks approval to move ahead with schematic design, formal cost
estimates and an implementation plan for an Off leash Dog Park in Shakopee.
BACKGROUND
.' We have been informally asked several times by Shakopee residents about the
feasibility of creating an off leash dog area (Dog Park) in Shakopee. Off-leash dog
areas are becoming very popular throughout the metropolitan region. As cities continue
to grow and open spaces for dogs are eliminated, residents are turning to cities and
counties to provide legal places for dogs to run off leash.
Minneapolis, St. Paul, Eden Prairie, Burnsville, Ramsey County, and Three Rivers Park
District are a few of the jurisdictions that provide designated off-leash areas. The closest
off-leash areas for Shakopee residents are in Burnsville, Eden Prairie, and Cleary lake
Regional Park in Prior lake.
As part of our response to the early resident requests, we conducted preliminary site
evaluations in 2005 and presented the results to the Parks and Recreation Advisory
Board. However, the site that was preferred by the Advisory Board (Memorial Park) had
an easement controlled by the Scott. County Soil and Water Conservation District, and
they were unwilling to work with the City to study the concept. This stopped work on the
Dog Park until a resident group formed in late summer 2006 after discussions with the
Advisory Board.
The resident dog park group conducted six meetings. During that time, previously
reviewed sites were discussed and new sites were identified, see attached site
summary list. The group also developed draft rules and operating procedures, and
posted petitions supporting the dog park in several local facilities that gathered 288
signatures.
Based on our preliminary analysis with the resident group, two sites were selected as
most.feasible to create an off-leash area, Blue lake and Tahpah Park, and the sites
were presented to the Advisory Board. The Advisory Board recommended to City
Council that the Tahpah site move forward for creation of the City's first dog park. They
also recommended allocating $15,000 from the 2007 CIP "Small Improvement Project"
funding, and asked that we return with more formal operating policies and fee
information. These recommem:lations are discussed in more detail below.
DISCUSSION
Recommended Site
There are several site characteristics that other organizations have found to be
desirable, such as:
. The larger the better; generally over 5 acres is preferred
. Limited existing use, buffering from adjacent uses
. Fenced
. Access to water (not required - users do bring their own water)
. Parking (20 spaces approx.) and good road access
. Variety of terrain and vegetation
. Walking loop
Of the two sites presented to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, Tahpah Park
was preferred, primarily because it is currently city owned and is available right away.
However, the site would be a temporary site since the land has been, identified for future
ball fields.
Though the Blue lake site did have preferred topography and good access from
CR101, the ownership issue (the site is owned by Metropolitan Council) was seen as a
potential delay. It would also be a temporary site, but not anticipated to be needed for 30
years, according to a recent study by Met Council. It could still be pursued as an
alternate site or as a replacement site in the future, if the pilot program is successful.
We met with the Youth Baseball Association President to discuss the use of the future
ball field as a dog park. It appears that the field will likely be needed in approximately
five years, though a new field could be used today by town teams if it were built. The
largest need for fields currently is for the 8-12 year old ages. Several new fields will be
available in the next few years for this age group as more city parks are developed. (A
more complete analysis of ball field and new facilities like dog parks will be completed
later this year as part of the Comprehensive Parks Plan Update.) The other concern
that was raised was the park's current heavy use, which could create potential conflicts.
Although reports of issues and conflicts from other cities have been rare, as with any
new initiative (such as the skate park), this would need to be monitored.
If Council concurs with the Advisory Board's site recommendation, it could be viewed as
a pilot program, and if there is demand and the site continues to be operated in a
successful manner, a different site could be made permanent, and additional sites could
be considered.
If Council concurs with moving forward, we would continue to work on refining the site
plan and costs and return with a recommendation from the Advisory Board.
Draft Rules
The resident group developed Draft Dog Park Rules that are based on a combination of
rules for dog parks in other cities, as well asa review of the City Code Ordinance 10.21.
The rules were intended to support existing ordinances and minimize additional
enforcement required, see attached preliminary rules.
The implementation of these rules and the creation of a dog park may require two
specific text amendments to City Ordinances related to license fees and allowing dogs
to be off leash in designated areas.
. Subd. 2 Running at large should be amended to allow dogs to be off leash only
in designated areas.
. Subd. 3-7, requires a dog to be licensed and wearing a tag. This ordinance
would have to be amended to. allow the surcharge added to the license fee for
ongoing support of the off leash dog area.
These changes would be brought back to Council at a later date for consideration.
We met with Captain Tate from the Police Department and discussed the concept of the
dog park, as well as a licensing fee and enforcement ideas. Captain Tate supported the
idea of the dog park and thinks it will make dog code enforcement easier in other city
parks as a result of having a legal off leash area. He also thought that Community
Service Officer staff would be able to commit some time to periodic checks of the dog
park and enforcing leash laws in other City-owned land more frequently. We also
discussed. the possibility.that other City .staffcQuld file complaints about dog leash
violations and the Police would be able to follow up on them.
Scott County Court Administration confirmed that the fines for existing dog related
ordinance violations are quite high. A citation for having a dog running off leash can
incur a $100 fine, an unlicensed dog fine is $130 and the list of nuisances, which
includes excessive barking and not cleaning up dog feces, among several others, is
$130.
If Council concurs with moving forward, we would continue to work on operating rules
and return with a recommendation from the Advisory Board.
Fees
The resident group supported the concept of fees to help cover operating costs. They
discussed a few different methods, including a special permit, a collection box, and a
surcharge on licenses. The surcharge on licenses was preferred.
Captain Tate thought this would be a good idea, and that the most simple approach,
charging the additional fee on all licenses, would. be most effective and easiest to
enforce.
If Council concurs with moving forward, we would continue to work on refining the fees
and methods for collecting fees and return with a recommendation from the Advisory
Board.
Funding
The amount of funding needed for startup costs would depend on the amount of
volunteer labor that the resident group could commit. The selected site could cost over
$30,000 to start up if all work is contracted. However, by using volunteer labor (and
potentially some limited assistance from City staff), the price can be reduced to $12,000-
$15,000.
The Advisory Board recommended allocating $15,000 from the 2007 "Small Projects"
funding in the 2007 CIP. There are several groups who have already expressed an
interest in helping with volunteer labor; an Eagle Scout candidate, the High School
Construction Class, and another Boy Scout Troop.
If Council concurs with moving forward, we would continue to work on refining the
startup costs and potential volunteer assistance and return with an implementation plan
recommendation from the Advisory Board.
RELATIONSHIP TO VISION
A. Active and Healthy Community
B. High Quality of Life
REQUESTED ACTION
If City Council concurs with the Advisory Board's recommendations, you are asked to
direct staff to:
1. Authorize preparation of site design, formal cost estimates, and an
implementation plan for a dog park in Tahpah Park.
2. Direct staff to work with the Police Department to finalize operating rules,
ordinance amendments, and fee procedures.
Shakopee Dog Park Group
Draft of Dog Park Rules and Operations
Rules
1. Dogs must be healthy, licensed and wearing a current tag, have current
vaccinations.
2. Dog handlers must clean up after their dogs, as per City Ordinance.
3. Handlers must be in control oftheir dogs at all times.
4. Handlers must have one leash in hand for each dog they have brought to the park.
S. Each adult Handler is allowed to bring a maximum of three dogs.
6. Children under the age of 12 must be supervised by an adult, very young children
are not recommended to be inside the off leash dog area.
7. Dogs known to be aggressive or exhibiting aggressive behavior or fitting the legal
definition of "Dangerous Dogs," as per City Ordinance, are not allowed in the
park.
8. Female dogs in heat are not allowed in the park.
9. Owners/handlers are responsible for their dogs and their dog's behavior, including
injuries inflicted by their dogs, as per City Ordinance.
10. Dogs must be leashed when entering and leaving the park.
11. Park Hours are sunrise to sunset (or dawn to dusk).
12. City of Shako pee Ordinance #10.21 applies to this Park. City Ordinances will be
enforced.
Operating Policy
1. Park Hours are sunrise to sunset (or dawn to dusk).
2. The City will be responsible for mowing, plowing the parking lot in winter,
,and garbage pickup and site furniture and fence maintenance. City Police will
provide security and Ordinance Enforcement similar to other Park facilities.
3. Proposed Fees for Shakopee Residents to be a surcharge to dog's license fee.
4. Fees for visitors could be deposited in a box like some parking lots use. Or a
donation could be placed in a box. (Ifthis option is approved, responsibility
for the fee box will have to be discussed)
City Ordinance 10.21 will need to be amended to reflect specifics of operation of
the offleash area as well as licensing surcharge fee addition, if this fee model is
approved.
Tahpah Do!! Park Schematic Desi!!o Pricio!! Estimates
Total Park Budget $ (undetermined)
Note: The following prices are meant to be used as a general guideline. Price variations may occur
primarily due to bidding/construction climate and quantity of work. This is called an opinion of probable
costs.
A 5% contingency and 5-25% staff design and construction administration number is typically added to
construction costs, but is not included in this estimate.
Construction elements
1. Wood chip trail (8' wide, 250 feet from entry in 2 directions) $ @ $15 per yard for 80-100 yard,
@ 6" deep* 200sf= 4 CY, 80yd= 4000 sf or 500 If@8' wide=$1200
2. Bituminous Trail (8' wide) $25 per linear foot
3. Concrete curbing (hand curb) $24 per lineal foot
4. Concrete walk $5.00 per square foot
5. Water /dog drinking fountain $5,000 plus water service connection to Schleper Stadium,
20,000,=$25,000
6. Bench or Picnic Table with concrete pad $1,500
7. Bench or Picnic Table no pad $600-900
8. Dog bag dispensers $-$160
9. Trash receptacles $-City standard
10. Accent Lighting, $-not needed (future field lighting, highway spill light)
11. Chain Link fence, $25 per lineal foot, dep. on qty.
12. Install salvaged chain link fence $13.00 per lineal foot (4' fence price, add 5$ per for posts and
smaller qty)
13. Agwire fence with 6" round wood posts (3,600 If) two gates (not inc1)
. A-6l" high with 6" vertical spacing, graduated horizontal=$22,504.9/3600 If (6.25/lf)
14. Signage (rules, ADA Parking, etc.) $400 (est)
15. Canopy Tree $400
16. Evergreen Tree $325
17. Shrubs $75 each
18. Prairie Garden 5-7,000 per acre
19. Turf seeding 2,500 per acre
20. Sod (SY) $5.00/SY
Tahpah Park Site Estimated costs (all work hired out. no landscapine:):
I-Fencing (2800 lfl'$6.30): $17,640.00
2-Grading at gate/entry: (12' wide x 100' long trail entry) 45 CY
$lS/CY= $675
3-Class 5: (entry trail) 25 CY@ 15$ CY= $375
4-Chain link double gate entry (salvaged fence material) $18/lf * 60lffor 1 double gate, and
20 for 1 utility access gate =$1440
5-Benches 6 * $700 ea (no pad) $4200
6-Picnic table (no pad) 2 * $900 ea= $1800
7-Signage (est) $400
8-Bag holders 4 (mailbox on top of wood fence post) $40 ea= $160
9- Trash receptacles (City standard) = free
10-Wood chip trail entry area and inward 500lf=$1200
11- Shade structure $5,000
12- Turf restoration (seed, 1/8 acre )=$315
Total costs: $33,205.00
Note: Additional costs maybe reduced to approximately
$15,200.00 with youth project~, donations of materials and fund raising.
Blue Lake D02 Park Schematic Desi2D PriciD2 Estimates
Total Park Budget $ (undetermined)
Note: The following prices are meant to be used as a general guideline. Price variations may occur
primarily due to bidding/construction climate and quantity of work. This is called an opinion of probable
costs.
A 5% contingency and 5-25% staff design and construction admin number is typically added to
construction costs, but is not included in this estimate.
Construction elements
1. Wood chip trail (8' wide) $ @ $15 per yard for 80-100 yard, @ 6" deep* 200sf= 4 CY, 80yd=
4000 sf or 500 If@8' wide=$1200
2. Bituminous Trail (8' wide) $25 per linear foot
3. Concrete curbing (hand curb) $24 per lineal foot
4. Concrete walk $5.00 per square foot
5. Water fountain or dog fountain $5,000 plus water service connection
6. Bench or Picnic Table with concrete pad $1,500
7. Bench or Picnic Table no pad $600-900
8. Dog bag dispensers $
9. Trash receptacles $
10. Accent Lighting, $3,000 per fixture plus electrical service connection
11. Chain Link fence, $20-25 per lineal foot, dep. on qty.
12. Install salvaged chain link fence $13.00 per lineal foot (4' fence price, add 5$ per for posts and
smaller qty)
13. Agwire fence with 6" round wood posts (3,600 If) two gates (not inc1)
. A-61" high with 6" vertical spacing, graduated horizontal=$22,504.9
. B-61" high with 3" vertical spacing, graduated horizontal=$24,755.5
14. Canopy Tree $400
15. Evergreen Tree $325
16. Shrubs $75 each
17. Prairie Garden 5-7,000 per acre
18. Turf seeding 2,500 per acre
19. Sod (SY) $5.00/SY
20. Signage (rules, ADA Parking, etc.) $400 (est)
Blue Lake Site Estimated costs (all work hired out):
I-Fencing: $20,587.00
2-Grading at gate/entry: (20' wide x 120' long =10 gravel parking spaces, 1 ADA) 90 CY
$15/CY= $1350
3-Class 5: 50 CY@ 15$ CY== $750
4-Chain link double gate entry (salvaged fence material) $18/lf * 60lffor I double gate, and
20 for I utility access gate ==$1440
5-Benches 6 * $700 ea (no pad) $4200
6-Picnic table (no pad) 2 * $900 ea== $1800
7-Signage (est) $400
8-Bag holders 4 (mailbox on top of wood fence post) $40 ea= $160
9- Trash receptacles (City standard) == free
10-Wood chip trail entry area and inward 5001f=$1200
Total costs: $31,887.00Note: Additional costs may be reduced with youth projects,
donations and fundraising material costs total around $12,000.00
Site Summary List
Blue Lake Water Treatment Plant (in preferred top two)
The Metropolitan Council owns the Blue Lake site land which has 13-15 unused acres.
Mark has spoken with two staff people from the plant and Met Council. The response
was mixed.
Positives: There are no plans for plant expansion for about 30 years (one of the main
concerns); it would be a great use of the space, which is currently unused; 13-15 acres of
rolling grassy land with large boulders and some trees; easy access bordering 101 with
some gravel parking. There is a natural berm bordering the land on the north, separating
it from a wildlife area. There would be nominal charge for use of the space
Required amenities: Additional parking, rock and wood mulch trail entry, fencing forthe
entire perimeter, signage, garbage cans, benches/tables and a porta-potty.
Concerns: Odor from the plant which is noticeable on hot humid days or when the wind
is blowing from the east. The odor is not offensive or noxious, but is occasionally
noticeable. Signage about the odor would be posted at the site. There is no pond for
water loving dogs. Park users would have to bring their own drinking water to the park.
Tahpah Park (in preferred top two)
This is an eight-acre parcel south of the west parking lot, accessed off of Vierling. It is
currently unused and would have a number of amenities in place or in walking distance
and easy access. The area would have to be fenced. Neighbors would be included in
the discussion. Future designated use is for an additional youth baseball field, but may
not be needed for several years due to new HS facilities.
Positives: It is an unused city -owned space, there is underused paved parking, other
amenities are close by (restrooms, water at stadium or concession area) it is visible and
has god street access. It has residents on only one side, and is separated by a wide
drainage easement and ditch.
Concerns: It would be a temporary site, future ball field use is planned, it does not have
much shade, it is adjacent to the highway, which is noisy, it does have peak uses during
the softball/base ball season, It has a storm water pond, but that might not be allowed for
dog use, it does have residential on one side.
Lions Park site
There is a small grassy acreage on the east side of the park bordering the Catholic
Cemetery. Upon further contact with the Church, the farmed site is not available for a
Dog Park. There is, however, a small narrow strip between the hockey rink and the
cemetery that may be useable as a small satellite site.
Jackson Town Hall Park site
After a conversation with Jackson Township, we determined that the Jackson Hall site is
not currently available to the City of Shakopee for a Dog Park, but may be a possible site
in the long-term future.
Scenic Heights seasonal use site
The Scenic Heights hockey arena is the only unpaved arena in Shakopee and has
potential as a seasonal dog.exercise area. The site would require only a gate and
signage and would make a good neighbor dog exercise area.
Shutrup Park site
Brief discussion of this site - it is city-owned, but currently still being farmed and would
have temporary use. The site would need fencing, parking, and road access. Eagle
Creek Blvd. (CR 16) has a lot of development nearby, but the road is a narrow two lane
along the park site. Road improvements might be needed (turn lanes) in order to develop
this site. This site has been put on hold because of the cost and extent of development.
Memorial Park (25 acres by the river)
Favored site in 2006, but it has a conservation easement to protect wildlife habitat - Scott
County Soil and Water Conservation District Board, SWCD, does not see this use as
acceptable within the easement. At this time, this site is not available for a Dog Park.
Town Square
There is acreage owned by the Department of Transportation (DOT) just south of Town
Square Shopping Center and North of Hwy 169 (and another parcel along Vierling). Both
have good road access and little of no current use. Mark has called the DOT about the
area with no response and will try to call again.
Southbridge- this was one of three originally evaluated, but the PRAB least favored it. It is
highly visible and has no available parking. Adding parking would create large
development costs. Possible future small walking site.
CITY OF SHAKOPEE PI {-lAf:J I- )AunD 1;;
Memorandum
To: Parks and Recreation Advisory Board farL 80cvrIJ ~
From: Andrea Weber, Parks and Recreation landscape Design
Subject: Proposed Off leash Dog Park
Date: December 18, 2006
Introduction
This item is to seek a recommendation on several proposed components of a future
Dog Park in Shakopee, including; proposed rules and operating procedures, proposed
sites, and schematic price estimates which the "Dog Park Group" has worked on with
staff over the last several months.
Background
DOQ Parks in General
Dog Parks are a relatively new type of park area, which began in the Twin Cities in the
early 1990's, where dogs and their owners are able to congregate and socialize with
each other. This is beneficial for the dogs, as they can learn to interact with other dogs
in a neutral setting. It is also a great community builder for people. Dog park users get to
know each other to a much greater degree than other types of park users and typically
take ownership of these parks. The parks become relatively "self-policing" and do not
require a lot of upkeep and maintenance, other than trash removal and minor trail
maintenance.
Some of the common features of dog parks include: mowed grass areas, native planting
areas, water bodies (ponds, etc.), some are fully fenced, some partially fenced with use
of "natural boundaries" and some are unfenced in more remote areas where they will
not cause disturbance. Trails in dog parks are typically not paved, and are woodchip,
gravel or packed earth. Other amenities may include etiquette and rules signage,
benches, picnic tables, gazebos, message boards, waste bag dispensers, waste
receptacles, dog wash areas, water bowls, fountains or hose hookups.
Shakopee DOQ Park Development Activities
The City of Shako pee has been approached to create an off leash dog area (Dog Park)
by residents on several occasions. In summer 2005, we began evaluating sites for this
use. The original three sites were Memorial Park, the Blue lake Water Treatment Plant
(open space on land owned by Met Council), and the former Fire Station site on
South bridge Parkway west of the retail area. Of the three options, the Parks and
Recreation Advisory Board preferred Memorial Park, Blue lake was 2nd and the
South bridge site was.not recommended. Staff followed up on the Memorial Park site by
seeking permission from the SWCD who hold a conservation easement over the site.
The SWCD did not see the Dog Park as a compatible use within the intent of the
Easement.
No other work on the project took place until this fall, when a new resident group was
spearheaded, at the request of the Advisory Board, bya resident, Barbara Vanek.
Barbara has helped facilitate the group, recruit interested residents and coordinated the
petition which was posted in the community.
We have had five meetings (the sixth meeting will have just taken place prior to this
meeting) and discussed several issues related to gaining resident support, reviewing
sites, and discussing rules of operation and maintenance operations. A petition was
posted in several local facilities. Because the two most preferred sites have special
conditions (temporary use, not city owned), the group decided to seek the
recommendation of the Advisory Board and City Council, prior to proceeding further with
the site selection, see citywide map, attached.
DOQ Park Petition
The petition was posted for six weeks at about several locations (Marschall Rd. Animal
Hospital, Shakopee Veterinary Clinic, Eagle Pets, Chuck and Don's, several boarding
kennels and the Shakopee Community Center). A total of 288 signatures were obtained
and will be presented at the meeting.
Draft Rules and Operations
The Draft Dog Park Rules the group developed were based on a combination of rules
for dog parks in other cities as well as a review of the City Code Ordinance 10.21. The
rules were intended to support existing ordinances in order to allow standard
enforcement of things such as picking up after you pet. The implementation of these
rules and the creation of a dog park may require two specific text amendments to City
Ordinances related to license fees and whether being off leash in the dog park would be
considered allowed under the current ordinance.
. The Ordinance includes information on licensing, tagging and record of
vaccinations (Sub. 3-7), so requiring a dog to be licensed and wearing a tag are
consistent with the ordinance. ( If we recommend the license surcharge as a
means to support ongoing maintenance an operations, this ordinance would
have to be amended).
. Sub. 2 Running at Large may have to be an Ordinance amendment, though
planning may want to interpret this because, technically, inside the Dog Park
may not be considered "Running at large."
The dog park group discussed funding for the initial start up of the park as well as
ongoing maintenance (mowing, trash, repairs and maintaining surface materials). The
group favored implementing a dog license surcharge for Shakopee Dog Owners. This
fee, could either be added to all new licenses, or could be optional for those who plan to
use the dog park and would also act as a pass. There could also be a daily fee box at
the site, but collecting the money would require staff time if that would be pursued and
there might also be more enforcement issues. A voluntary donation box for daily fees is
another possibility, but would also have collection needs.
Blue lake Doa Park Site
The Blue lake site was one of the original sites selected for further evaluation in 2005. It
is north of Hwy 101 and west of the treatment plant, on land owned by the Metropolitan
Council. It is a large open, relatively flat site with some rolling hills and some trees, site
analysis attached. It is covered with tall grasses of mixed species, and is not mowed.
The Minnesota River Wildlife Refuge borders it to the northe and the US Fish and
Wildlikfe owns land to the west. There are no nearby residents or businesses that would
be disturbed by a dog park. There is a gravel drive off 101, and a gravel road, which
could be widened to accommodate on street gravel parking. This 15 acre site would
require full fencing due to the highway proximity and treatment plant security. The site
has good access and good visibility.
The site is designated for future expansion of the water treatment facility; however, this
expansion is not expected for approximately 30 years. One drawback of the proximity to
the treatment plant is occasional odor on days when the air is still. Another concern
expressed by the treatment facility/Met Council staff is the need to protect the security of
the plant site. Cost estimates will be provided at the meeting.
Tahpah Park Doa Park Site
The Tahpah Park site is a new site selected by the group. It is north of Hwy 169 and
west the Marystown/Adams interchange. It is accessed off of Vierling drive, south of
theTahpah west parking lot, see site analysis, attached. It is land designated for a
youth baseball field. However, with the construction of the new High School facilities and
small improvements to Riverview Park, this field will probably not be needed for at least
5 years. It is a 8 acre site which is mostly flat. It is bordered by the upper valley drainage
way and town homes on the west side and a berm and fence along Highway 169 on the
south and ball fields to the east. The site is mowed grass, and only has afew trees near
the south edge. The parking lot which exists is not used heavily, and with the new
parking expansion at Tahpah, it may not see a lot of use until the additional field would
be added. This site would also require full fencing due to the highway proximity.. The site
has good access and good visibility. Cost estimates will be provided at the meeting.
Reauested Action
Provide direCtion to staff and the dog park group and if they concur, make a
recommendation to the City Council on the following issues:
1. Draft Rules and Operations (including fees)
2. Site preference of either Blue lake or Tahpah Park.
3. Other direction that the Advisory Board chooses.
~
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S.hakopee Pro ~ ~.. .~
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'J -. . posed Dog Park
~. 2005 "t
f] SI e evaluaf
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,I 20
06 site evaluaf
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~ Blue Lake II SITE
SHAI<OPEE Doe Park Site Anal~sis PHOTOS
cu.....nl'lrn...............
- -
Advantages: Dis-advantagcs:
- Compatible with adjacent - MET Councll-owned land, use
uses agreomont neoded
- Large area with sun and - Sensitivo wildllfo - heron colony
shade - No water foaturo
. Gentle rolling land - Gravol parking on road
- Link to existing MVNWR trail - Noar 100 yoar lIood zone
system - Fencing costs
- Exlsllng access via Hwy 101 . Occasional Treatment Plant odor
- Forge partnerships with . Seasonal hunting use hazard
other agencies - Futuro Treatment Plant. tompo-
- Currently tittle use If any use rary use? .
- Easy to develop for dog park
. Good vlslbllty, easy 10 find
l'
Advantages: Dis-advantages: II SITE .
~ TAHPAH PARK
-Existing paved parking which - Future use identified as addition-
~..2~~ Dog Park Site Analysis is not heavily used al ball field, dog park would be PHOTOS
- Large flat area temporary unless park Comp Plan
- Linked to city and park trails Is changed
- Existing access via Vierling - Heavy use of developed site for
Drive games and tournaments at times
- Currently liUle use - No water feature, no trees
- Easy to develop for dog park - Irrigation water supply Is non po-
- Good visibilty, easy to find table, potable water would have to
be brought from stadium
- Near townhomes (condo)
- Fencing costs
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Shakopee Dog Park
Site Selections and Policies
January 2, 2007: City Council
SHAKOPEE
COMMUNITY PRIDE SINCE 1857
Dog Park
Why have a Dog Park?
. The Ci~ has been approached several times
by resi ents requesting an area to legally
exercise their pets off leash.
. City Ordinance section 10.21 prohibits off
leash exercise for dogs-dogs or,cats; "running
at large" is a misdemeanor ($100 fine).
. Dog parks are located in many nearby cities
~den Prairie, Prior Lake (Three Rivers Park
istrict), Bumsville, Bloomington,
Rosemount) and are a growing trend
. Dog parks serve city residents who might not
have their recreational needs met by other
types of existing facilities
. Analogous to a skate park; a dog park would
provide a place where it is permitted to do an
activity which is otherwise not permitted in the
city
suM. 2. Runnina at lame Prohibited. It is unlawful for any owner to permit a dog or cat to run
at large.
OFF LEASH DOG PARK PRESENTATION Janua 2 2007
~s>!~~ Parks & Recreation, Natural Resources, and Facilities
1
~.
, "
Dog Park
What have we done so far?
2005 Process
. Summer Recreation
Intern
. Site analysis
. Open House
. PRAB presentation
in August 2005
. Eagle Scout
Candidate
OFF LEASH DOG PARK PRESENTATION Janua 2,2007
~~~s~~ Parks & Recreation, Natural Resources, and Facilities
Dog Park
August 2005
PRAB
Preliminary
Sites
1. Memorial Park
. Preferred Site
. In underused part of
existing park
. Native vegetation
natural boundaries
OFF LEASH DOG PARK PRESENTATION Janua 2 2007
,M c ti
2
j""
C,/
-~--------_.
--_._~--_._-
-------...---
Dog P. a rk ===~==>=-'?-
--~-~._._--
---~--
2006 Dog Park Group 11
. PRAB discussion led to a new resident Sh.kope< Dog P.rk
group. Barbara Vanek volunteered to Do ",",G"'P
spe~rhead the project to move it forward yo, . dog? I "":.;.~ I -__'-
again ""~w. II'" ..,< -,
. Grou has met 6 times with 21 different =:: :
peopFe attending meetings (avg. 10 per. " ~,_....
meeting) Interest appears to be growing H'~"_""'''''''to-;;;';'''-
. SVN article on 12-14-06 increased S=::;::;:::.~
awareness. W~_pIanoi"1'lohold.-_......inplod<vdop."..pIaII
. A petition was circulated in the =":':]=~~~"=I
community 288 names were recorded in ~""._~--~~, II
support of the dog park =~.~~~ 'c.
. . . ClIyHlIlIlIt6PM.
. Draft Rules and Operations were written -_.......... ___.__~~
. Two sites are being presented to the City i::':.";;':;:"d:::;':;:__ ~-!;ig?Z--'-::'s1
Council to move forward with a final site .~-,,- ~--:-=_::: ~.
proposal and begin design and ~~.~.==~.~~.. ~:;';;;:;';;:,:~:.
implementation of the park ~:;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;:
. Volunteer assistance in construction to '''~E::-==-~"".=
bring costs down-several groups have :~~:siiEs;
indicated interest "====~.=-"'-
B" '=.=----
,f!"'l. .=~-==_"'"'"
..~.--- .
OFF LEASH DOG PARK PRESENTATION Janua 2 2007
O!.l~~~~~ Parks & Recreation, Natural Resources, and Facilities
Sih:!~ discussed'
Memorial Park V'""';.",@,,,'" "'''8'-yl1'1'fi~
Dog Park ~~~~k~ownHall
Lions Park
General. Site Qualities: Sout~bridge .
L . 5 Scemc Heights (hockey rink-seasonal use)
· arge size > acres c h h Park
· Limited existing use, s~:, P rk
. Adjacent uses compatible u p a . .
MnDoT parcels along V,erhng and south of Town Square Mall
. Fenced
. Accessto water (desired,
not required)
. Parking (20 spaces)
. Varied topography and
vegetation
. Walking loop, soft trails
....,
;-. . ..'......... '-'
,"'" '< -"'>'~,"'" -":,'," '.
. -.... ...""
. ."'.: f>' '>'::~-k';:'''~J.:l .
OFF LEASH DOG PARK PRESENTATION Janua 2 2007
o~~~s!~~ Parks & Recreation, Natural Resources, and Facilities
3
f'\.,
'~
Dog Park ~9"~~"!\1:7:'p.',",";;",'"
Blue Lake Site
Required amenities ($12 000-$32 000):
Blue Lake Treatment Plant oAdditional parking (gravel)
15 acre site off of Hwy 101 adjacent to otrail access (rock and wood mulch)
Water Treatment Plant. (Met Council) ofencing for the entire perimeter
Positives: osignage, garbage cans, benches/tables
. Currently unused, Plant expan- oporta-potty,
sion not expected for 30 years
. 13-15 acres of varied
topo~raPhb and vegetation
with arge oulders
. Easy access off of H::'J 101
via existing gravel roa
. Berm bordering wildlife refuge
to the north
. Likely nominal charge for use
Concerns:
. Land is owned by
Metropolitan Council
. Occasional Odor
(noticeable on humid
days and certain wind
gallerns (signage would
e posted at the site,)
. There is no pond and no
likely utility access, Park
users would have to
bring their own drinking
water to the park. park
would be unlit.
OFF LEASH DOG PARK PRESENTATION Janua
~~~s:~~ Parks & Recreation, Natural Resources, and Facilities
Dog Park Tahpah Site t~;""'''+.
pah Southwest parcel: Required amenities ($33 000- 15 200):
oTrail entry (gravel and wood mulch)
re site off of Hwy 169 adjacent to .Fencing (poSSible 3 sides)
t parking lot (City) oShade structure (only trees along Hwy
~: berm)
. It is CitY-<lwned and not currently osignage, garbage cans, benches/tables
used oporta-potty
. 8 acres of mostly flat mowed grass
land, a few trees trees
. Visible, with easy access off of ~ TAHPAH PARK -
--~-
Vierling bordering 169 with existing ~ Dog Park Site Analysis ......c__
-"-"'-
parking .U-"<ik1....ori_
.~_...~
. Trail connections, walking access to ..,..,....,........
_......._b""""_
Tahpah park restrooms and drinking _Goo<I__IoW
water
. Residential buffered by wide
drainage easement and ditch
Concerns:
. Future use designated as a
Bali Field (5 year)
. ~~~cent town homes on one
. Parking demand, new user
group
. Highway noise from 169
. Limited shade, a shade
shelter would be desirable
OFF LEASH DOG PARK PRESENTATION Janua 2 2007
OMI!:~~S!!;~ Parks & Recreation, Natural Resources, and Facilities
4
~ "'
.
Dog Park Draft Rules and Operations
Shakopee Dog Park Group
Draft of Dog Park Rules and Operations Fees and
Rules
1. Dogs must be healthy, licensed and wearing a current tag, have current funding
vaccinations.
2.. Dog handlers must clean up after their dogs, as per City Ordinance. License
3. . Handlers must be in control of their dogs at all times.
4. Handlers must have one leash in hand for each dog they have brought to the park. surcharge
5. Each adult Handler is allowed to bring a maximum of three dogs.
6. Children under the age of 12 must be supervised by an adult, very young children
are not recommended to be inside the off leash dog area. Ordinance
7. Dogs known to be aggressive or exhibiting aggressive behavior or fitting the legal
definition of''Oangerous Dogs," as per City Ordinance, are not allowed in the enforcement
park.
8. Female dogs in heat are not allowed in the park. (fines $100-
9. Ownerslhandlers are responsible for their dogs and their dog's behavior, including
injuries inflicted by their dogs, as per City Ordinance. $130)
10. Dogs must be leashed when entering and leaving the park.
11. Park Hours are sunrise to sunset (or dawn to dusk).
12. City of Shako pee Ordinance #JO.21 applies to tbisPark. City Ordinances will be
enforced
Operating Policy
I. . Park Hours are swuise to sunset (or dawn to dusk).
2. The City will be responsible for mowing, plowing the parking lot in winter,
and garbage pickup and site furniture and fence maintenance. City Police will
provide security and Ordinance Enforcement similar to other Park facilities.
3. Proposed Fees for Shakopee Residents to be a surcharge to dog's license fee.
4. Fees for visitors could be deposited in a box like some parking lots use. Or a
donation could be placed in a box. (If this option is approved, responsibility
for the fee box will have to be discussed)
OFF LEASH DOG PARK PRESENTATION Janua 2.2007
2:!~~S~~I~ Parks & Recreation, Natural Resources. and Facilities
Questions?
Relationship to Visioning: ",~:?;'; '<'><:.
.
A. Active and Healthy ";.,,..:-...... .....,","<c:;.,..'_,.:,._;...,,".,",".,-.-;.'''''.,c...,.,c_::.C" "'f_'';--'-.c,."
Community
B. High Quality of Life
Requested Action: If City Council concurs with the Advisory
Board's Recommendation, direct staff to:
. Authorize preparation of site design, and cost estimates and an
implementation plan for a Dog Park in Tahpah Park.
. Direct staff to work with the Police Department to finalize operating rules,
ordinance amendments, and fee procedures.
. Or provide other direction that the City Council chooses.
OFF LEASH DOG PARK PRESENTATION Janua 2 2007
I!~I~S~~~ Parks & Recreation, Natural Resources, and Facilities
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