dog

A recommendation for a dog park near Legion Park in Fort Frances is being sent back to an advisory committee.

The committee proposed using an area adjacent to a parking lot that was constructed when improvements to Lily Avenue and development of the spray park were taking place.

The site was cited for having access to water infrastructure, proximity to amenities such as public washrooms and restaurants, and its central location, which may attract people travelling from out of town with their pets.

However, the same area is being looked at by Councillor John McTaggart as a possible location for a campground.

He has submitted a notice of motion that asks administration for a report to explore the feasibility.

McTaggart notes in his motion that Point Park is often full during the summer months, and that there is no other place in town where people with motorhomes, trailers and tents can camp overnight.

The town has long eyed the area for future development, previously rejecting a dog park being established.

Councillor Mike Behan admits it is a prime piece of real estate.

“I’m not sure a dog park is the best use of that location,” says Behan.

“We had one in a previous council, somebody approached us for potential housing unit there. We have councilor McTaggart’s suggestion of maybe putting a campground there. I just think that this parcel of land being so valuable could have more benefit to the community as a revenue source than a dog park.”

Councillor Bill Morrison also agrees that a dog park may not be the best option for the land.

“I think it’s a very valuable piece of property, and I think there’s something else we should do with it,” says Morrison.

“I’d like to see other options on the table for other properties we have in town for the dog park.”

The advisory committee reviewed five other properties, but none were listed in the report provided to council.

Council is expected to discuss McTaggart’s notice of motion at their next meeting in May.