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Norwalk formalizes partnership with Friends of Norwalk Dogs to support off‑leash parks
Summary
Committee authorized the mayor to sign an agreement with Friends of Norwalk Dogs to collaborate on preserving and improving off‑leash dog parks, fundraise for amenities and expand communications between dog owners and city staff.
The Recreation and Parks Committee authorized the mayor to sign an agreement with Friends of Norwalk Dogs (FOND) to formalize a partnership to preserve and improve off‑leash dog parks, expand leash/out‑of‑leash spaces, and coordinate communications and fundraising.
Catherine Stanek, identified by committee staff as a founding member of the group, described Taylor Farm as a 30‑acre dog park that has attracted residents and noted FOND’s volunteer fundraising and outreach. "There’s I haven't found a dog park in America that's 30 acres to what we have there," Stanek said. "I have met so many people that have moved to Norwalk with dogs because it is such a great amenity."
Stanek said FOND is a 501(c)(3) organization (recognized in August 2023), operates social channels with about 1,600 members, and has raised roughly $13,000 from local donors. She said about $7,000 of that total has been set aside toward an estimated $8,000 drinking/washing station the group hopes to build in cooperation with the city. The group also said it can help distribute event information and user guidance for areas where parking changes or temporary closures occur.
City staff and committee members expressed support for the formal relationship, noting volunteer fundraising and outreach reduce the department’s workload and help deliver amenities. The committee approved the agreement unanimously.
