During a recent meeting of the Gloucester Board of Supervisors, community members voiced strong support for the establishment of an off-leash dog park in the county. The discussion was initiated by a resident who shared personal experiences highlighting the need for a dedicated space where dogs can exercise and socialize freely.

The speaker recounted a visit to Art Park, where they discovered that the gates to the off-leash area had been removed due to complaints about damage and cleanliness. This decision, they argued, did not effectively address the issues raised, as it restricted dog owners while allowing unrestricted access for wildlife. The resident emphasized the importance of off-leash parks for both dogs and their owners, noting that such spaces foster community interaction and provide essential exercise for pets.

Support for the proposal was echoed by another resident, Helen Havrilla, who presented a letter from a fellow community member advocating for the park. The letter outlined several benefits of a dog park, including improved quality of life for residents, encouragement of outdoor activities, support for local businesses, and enhanced community building. It also suggested potential revenue sources through annual use passes for registered dogs.

The residents highlighted successful examples from other Virginia cities, such as Williamsburg and Virginia Beach, where off-leash parks have thrived. They urged the Board of Supervisors to consider the establishment of a fenced area for dogs, which they believe would not only benefit local pet owners but also attract visitors and enhance the overall appeal of Gloucester County.

The meeting concluded with a call for further discussion and consideration of the proposal, as community members expressed their hope for a dedicated space that would serve both pets and their owners.