Heath boards authorize staff to schedule public hearing for temporary dog‑recreation area at 305 Lawrence Drive

The Heath Economic Development Corporation and Municipal Benefits Corporation directed staff Dec. 11 to advance a public‑notice process for a temporary dog‑recreation area at 305 Lawrence Drive, an EDC‑owned property. Brooke, who presented the concept, outlined the legal path: the EDC retains ownership while the MBC would fund the amenity, and the board should publish notice, hold a public hearing, and then take the item to council if necessary.

Brooke described the minimum amenities (double‑gate entry, fencing, shade, waste stations, drainage and accessibility) and practical concerns such as sizing, a segregated small/large‑dog area, and ADA access. She said much of the basic infrastructure — water and some concrete pathways — already exists on the site, which reduces initial costs and makes a temporary installation feasible.

Board members asked about entry location, parking, TxDOT coordination for a crosswalk, and safety (avoiding people crossing Lawrence Drive). Brooke and staff recommended a conceptual budget in the $25,000–$30,000 range for a basic temporary fit‑out, with the option to expand amenities later if the pilot proves popular. Board members emphasized the need for public input and economic development justification, with one member noting the concept could function as an R&D test to measure walkability and potential commerce support for adjacent businesses.

The board directed staff to publish notice and schedule the MBC public hearing so the community can provide feedback before the project moves forward.