City plans off leash dog park amid community debate

During a recent government meeting, Orinda city officials discussed the conceptual design and estimated costs for a new off-leash dog park at Wilder Park. The proposal, which has evolved from previous discussions about a pickleball area, aims to cater to the growing demand from dog owners in the community.

Council members opted to skip a formal presentation, diving directly into a Q&A session to expedite the discussion. One council member raised concerns about the project's $250,000 budget, suggesting that allowing off-leash use at nearby Orinda Oaks Park during weekdays could be a cost-effective trial. This idea was met with mixed responses, as some officials noted that many dog owners already utilize parks informally, which complicates enforcement and management.

The conversation also highlighted the potential for a pilot program to assess community interest in off-leash areas. Officials mentioned that neighboring Moraga has implemented similar initiatives, though experiences have varied. The council discussed the importance of community outreach and feedback, proposing to gather public opinions at local events like farmers' markets.

Additionally, the city is eyeing a grant opportunity from the Land and Water Conservation Fund, which could cover half of the project's costs if the design reaches a certain development stage. The Rotary Club has also expressed a willingness to contribute up to $75,000 towards the dog park, further reducing the financial burden on the city.

As the meeting concluded, officials agreed to further develop the project, conduct community consultations, and explore the feasibility of a trial off-leash period. This approach aims to refine the proposal and gauge public support before moving forward with budget discussions in the coming year.