Dog Park Not Thought Out

As of October 9, 2014, the small park in the Valley Station Circle neighborhood in Buellton will have a dog park. This sounds like great news for dog owners and dogs alike until the details are revealed. This dog park will not be fenced; it will not be identified with signs; it won’t have posted rules or dog waste bags. Most importantly, this dog park will be in a small park that includes a very busy children’s play area.

Don’t get me wrong: I am not entirely opposed to having this small park transformed into a dog park. What I am opposed to is the irresponsible manner in which it is being created. Home owners were not contacted to vote — just a short HOA meeting discussion, an off-the-cuff proposal and second. At the meeting, an equal number of non-boardmembers were for the idea as against it (2 to 2)!

The entire notification read: “As of 10/9/2014, Dogs shall be allowed to roam off leash in the common area park if supervised by owner and the animal is not a nuisance or danger to other residents. The owner of the dog will be liable for any damages to the common area or injury to any persons caused by the dog. The owner shall immediately remove any excrement or clean other unsanitary conditions left.”

There is not a name, phone number, or email address to which homeowners can make inquiries or express concern. The HOA president and board appear to be completely unconcerned with the health and safety of children, dogs, the environment, etc. All my attempts to learn more from the board and management company have been completely ignored.

Kids, be careful out there! Those teeth can be sharp!