Ulster board holds public hearing on proposed dog‑in‑parks law, closes hearing after resident input

The Town of Ulster opened a public hearing on a proposed amendment to Chapter 127 that would allow dogs in town parks under specified limitations, then closed the hearing after residents offered suggestions and the board heard clarifications.

Supervisor Quigley summarized the proposal as written in the packet, saying dogs — including service and companion animals — would be allowed in parks so long as they are on a leash and owners comply with cleanup rules. Quigley corrected a typographical leash-length error in the draft ordinance, stating, "15 feet, not inches," and said staff would publish the corrected language.

Several residents spoke during the hearing. A resident identified as Laura urged the board to ensure adequate trash receptacles and suggested partnering with a local business to sponsor seasonal dispensers for dog‑waste bags. Laura said lack of convenient disposal options was a major contributor to cleanup problems at parks such as Foresight Park. The board replied that the town is already acquiring dog‑waste bags for the season and acknowledged that park attendants will face new enforcement demands.

The board moved to close the public hearing after public comments were heard; the motion was seconded and approved. The transcript records the hearing was closed but does not record a final adoption vote on the ordinance at this meeting.

What happens next: the board will have the corrected draft language published in the packet/website and may bring the ordinance back for formal action at a future meeting. The record shows the board took public input and clarified leash length and enforcement expectations but did not adopt the law during this session.