Animal lovers wanting a dog park in Port Edward will have to wait a while longer.
The idea to convert the existing soccer field into a dog park was brought to council on Jan. 13 in the form of a petition signed by approximately 80 residents, who cited wildlife concerns and the lack of an off-leash area in the community. The petition was brought back to the table at the Feb. 11 meeting and, although the idea of allowing dog use on the field on a trial basis was raised, council unanimously rejected the idea.
"I am very happy that we are going to keep the soccer field as it is," said Mayor Dave MacDonald.
"Right now there are a lot of places in Port Edward where you can walk your dog safely and we just ask that people pick up after their pets."
Although council voted against converting the soccer field, MacDonald said the dog park idea is not completely off the table.
"For those who signed the petition, council is going to look to see if there is another location, if it is feasible and what the cost would be to put up a fence," he explained, adding there is no time line in place for a report back on the park idea.
Those signing the petition noted there were no competitive teams or leagues using the field and felt that allowing dogs would make it a more valuable asset to Port Edward.