Darien advisory committee recommends leashed dogs on Great Island but keeps bridle trail restricted

The Great Island Advisory Committee voted 5–4 on Feb. 26 to recommend that the Board of Selectmen modify the island’s dog policy to allow dogs on leash anywhere people are permitted to go, with the single exception of the bridle trail, and to require owners to clean up after their dogs.

The motion, moved by Jim Palen (Board of Finance, Chair) and seconded by Mike Burke (Selectman), passed with five members in favor (Mark Adiletta, Mike Burke, Bruce Ferguson, Daniel Kolakowski and Jim Palen) and four opposed (Lori Bora, Monica McNally, Jeffrey Taebel and Kipp Visi). The recommendation now goes to the Board of Selectmen for consideration.

Committee members debating the change cited enforcement, public use and wildlife protection. Chair Monica McNally said the trial policy had shown noncompliance in sensitive areas and noted camera counts: "since the beginning of the year they had 49 dogs on the trail; 14 dogs off leash on the trail and two dogs off leash in the restricted eagle area," and she urged caution until the master plan is completed in July.

Supporters argued for expanded access with controls. Palen said it was time to "allow residents to bring their dogs on the Island," while Burke, who seconded the motion, said enforcement and rules about waste pickup should accompany any change and suggested that the "impact of dogs was co-equal to that of humans." Several members, including Mark Adiletta and Bruce Ferguson, urged stronger enforcement and education about waste disposal.

Opponents, including Lori Bora, said noncompliance and use of restricted areas justify keeping the stricter policy. The motion the committee approved specifically directs that dogs be on leash, owners dispose of waste properly, and the bridle trail remain closed to dogs; it is a recommendation rather than a final town policy change. The Board of Selectmen will consider the committee’s recommendation at a future meeting.