Resident urges improved leash signage after three dog attacks near library

John Sullivan, a Saint Helena resident, told the City Council on March 25 that he had been attacked three times in the past year by off‑leash dogs in the Vineyard Flood Control Area north of Adams Street.

Sullivan said one recent attack — described in the police blotter — involved a pack of dogs that also bit another jogger. "On 2 of those occasions, 3 dogs by the same owner were off leash and not under voice control," he said, and he added that when he told the owner about the leash law she insisted the area was off‑leash.

The matter matters to public safety because Sullivan said the area is frequented by joggers, bicyclists and families using the library and river path. He told council members he checked with the police department and that the officer confirmed the area is subject to the city's leash law and said he would contact the dog owner and warn that future infractions could result in a citation.

Sullivan asked the city to place clearer signs on existing posts (near bag dispensers) to remove any misconception that the Vineyard Flood Control Area is an off‑leash zone. He said signs are inexpensive and that he had brought samples for staff to review.

City staff responded on the record that public works or planning staff would follow up; Chief Hartley was asked to collect Sullivan's contact information so staff could coordinate with him on potential signage. Council members thanked Sullivan and asked staff to pursue follow up at the staff level rather than placing the matter on a future agenda immediately.

The council did not take formal action during the meeting. The city manager and police department agreed to have staff contact Sullivan to discuss signage options and next steps.