Council rejects Topsail Island doggy park

There will not be a leash-free dog park at Topsail Island.

Not now.

Not ever.

Sault Ste. Marie City Council voted tonight to reject the idea of a doggy park there, "now or in the future."

A resolution passed by councillors tonight left the door open for such a park the municipally owned Srathclair property next to the local humane society, subject to community support and funding.

A local dog owner's group doesn't like that location.

Councillors said tonight that the group is welcome to suggest an alternative spot for a leash-free park.

The City's Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee studied the issue for two and a half years and rejected the Topsail Island location.

The committee cited the following as drawbacks to placing a leash-free park there:

- Anticipated resistance from residents.

- Topsail Island is used for special events including the Bon Soo Winter Carnival and Rotary North Dragon Boat Races.

- The proposed use does not fall within the master strategy plan for Bellevue Park.

- The City Solicitor advises that fencing would needed on parts of the property adjacent to water. This would involve significant expense and would take away from the aesthetic value of the site.

The following were cited as advantages for the Strathclair property:

- size of the property exceeds criteria (two to three acres minimum).

- Humane Society supports this site.

- Land can be accessed for year-round use.

- Property provides a variety of natural elements including grass and trees.

- It's isolated from residential areas but within driving distance.

- Site is accessible for tourists and close to accomodations and restaurants.

- City could provide services including grass cutting and garbage pickup.

- Site has excellent development potential.

- Ample room for parking, once developed.

- Accessible washrooms and telephone.

- Centrally located for most residents.