Open Space Advisory Board Agenda and Packet 2012 12 12

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Open Space Advisory Board Minutes November 14, 2012 Page 3 of 7 updating the program. Tom described the two off-leash areas located in Louisville: Davidson Mesa dog off-leash area and the Community Park dog park. Tom described that in previous years OSAB has evaluated possible available properties on South Boulder Road and various properties on Dillon for potential acquisition for the purpose of dog off-leash or dog park areas. Tom discussed the mission of the Open Space Program and that OSAB currently strives to preserve habitat and species and provide trail network and experiences for all citizens. There must be a balance for these needs. Mike Schantz (OSAB) – We need to balance public needs with preserving property. We need to ensure that there is a sufficient enforcement element if any changes occur with the dog off-leash policy. Alison Gorsevski (OSAB) – I would like to hear from the public if part of the draw and popularity of the City of Boulder’s off leash program is the attractiveness of the properties themselves (mountains, forests etc.) and amenities rather than just the off-leash opportunity. Tom talked about information that would be helpful to the board in making a decision. Tom thought the following information would be helpful to know: number of dogs in Louisville, programs in neighboring communities, projected impacts of this type of use. How can we gather information on current compliance, etc. perhaps creating citizen survey questions could help us get a better understanding of public opinion on this topic. Ember Brignull (staff) –When asked about public comments on this issue Ember said that public comments from her encounters on the trail are fairly split between those who want to be off-leash and those who are in favor of more enforcement to keep dogs on leash. The Open Space Division does not currently have a formal mechanism for tracking dog off leash issues (no specific call-in line or submittal form). Public Comment: Amy Hancock, 500 Grant Ave.- Comments in support of opening trails to off- leash use. Stephane Eisen, 310 Lilac Circle – Idea – Charge a fee for the tag/training system and use that revenue for compliance. Rebecca Smith, 809 LaFarge Avenue – Green tag holder. Spoke about the pros and cons of green tag system and talked about the benefits of an exercise program for a dog. 4