Corte Madera resident advocates for off-leash dog hours in local parks

The Corte Madera Parks and Recreation Commission meeting on January 27, 2025, featured significant discussions regarding dog park regulations and community access to local parks. Resident Richard Kalish addressed the commission, expressing concerns about the enforcement of leash laws in empty parks. He highlighted his experiences with his dog and suggested that off-leash access should be allowed during low-traffic times, particularly in the early morning when few people are present.

Kalish argued that the current regulations do not accommodate the diverse needs of different dog breeds and their owners. He pointed out that neighboring towns, like San Anselmo, have more flexible rules that allow off-leash dog access before certain hours. He urged the commission to consider similar measures to maximize park usage for residents without disrupting other park activities.

The commission acknowledged Kalish's comments and discussed the need for a review of existing dog park rules. They noted that while park rules were recently updated, a more thorough examination of dog regulations could be beneficial. The possibility of scheduling a future agenda item to address these concerns was also mentioned.

In addition to the dog park discussion, the commission received an email regarding the potential use of all-terrain vehicles for disabled individuals in local parks, suggesting that Corte Madera could explore similar initiatives to enhance accessibility.

The meeting underscored the commission's commitment to balancing park regulations with community needs, indicating that further discussions and potential adjustments to the rules may be forthcoming.