Council rewrites parks rule to allow leashed dogs citywide, with some exceptions

The Common Council adopted a rewrite of the city parks ordinance to allow leashed dogs in most park areas, reversing a prior patchwork of day-specific allowances that staff described as unenforceable. Staff said the revised ordinance permits leashed dogs throughout parks but continues to prohibit dogs on athletic fields, playground areas and in shelter areas; owners must pick up after animals and obey leash rules. The mayor and council members noted the city allowed dogs at the farmers market last year on a trial basis without incident and recommended the clearer, simpler ordinance to reduce confusion. The council voted on the ordinance and the motion carried on a roll-call vote with one recorded 'no' vote by Alderson Sarian; the remainder of the council voted in favor. Councilmembers said enforcement and public education would be important next steps.