Resident pitches off-grid toilets and a seasonal dog park during Parks & Rec work session

Sherry Carrington, a resident, urged the committee to consider two off-grid toilet systems for backcountry sites and suggested repurposing at least one underused softball field as a noncommercial dog park with gated access and registration.

Carrington described two systems that divert urine and reduce solid waste volume: a decomposition-based unit that uses native invertebrates and can last years under heavy use, and a sealed-bin model that can deliver thousands of uses before the small remaining waste is hauled out. She said she contacted a vendor who quoted about $30,000 including travel and setup but outlined cheaper options if the municipality or community builds supporting structures or buys only the conveyor/urine-diversion components.

She also advocated for more dog-friendly spaces in town, noting heavy use of Shoreline Park and safety/maintenance concerns. Carrington proposed using one of the two softball fields during the off-season as a fenced, register-only dog park with keypad access, posted rules, and fines for violations. Supporters said a fenced area could centralize dog use and reduce off-leash problems; others warned about turf damage and preserving fields for tournaments.

The committee did not adopt any formal action on Carrington’s proposals. Staff and assembly members asked for time to weigh maintenance impacts, timing (frozen-ground use), and alternative fenced locations; the manager and staff agreed to consider the suggestions when updating the draft policy.