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January 15, 2003 The Beverly Animal Resources Coalition (BARC) announced plans today to continue efforts to promote fair access to Beverly city parks for dogs and their owners. BARC is determined to work toward the creation of off-leash opportunities where recreational dog owners can exercise and socialize their dogs. BARC also stated that they will continue to work with the city in an effort to resolve the conflicting dog ordinances, which have led to confusion about where and when dogs are allowed in the city's parks.
The Parks and Recreation sub-committee, formed to jointly find solutions to avoid banning dogs from Beverly parks, was comprised of Parks and Recreation, BARC and the non-dog-owning representatives. At a recent meeting, the final proposal was rejected by the BARC representatives, stating the plan would likely fail to resolve the issues, or to achieve off leash access in the near future. BARC also believes that the proposed increased restrictions and penalties to dog owners would likely become a reality in the short-term, with no benefits to balance them.
"BARC agreed to work with the sub-committee in an effort to resolve the concerns that led up to the proposed ban in the first place, which were abandoned dog poop in the parks and off leash activity in public areas, which is not allowed under current Beverly leash law or ordinances," said Matthew Bangert, BARC representative. "BARC's intention all along was to promote educational initiatives to raise awareness of the issues, encourage dog owners to always pick up after their dogs, and to work with the city in creating off-leash options where responsible owners could gather and exercise their dogs legally. With these concerns alleviated, BARC sees no reason to further restrict access to Beverly's parks."
The issue has galvanized the dog owning community and BARC was formed in September 2002. Over 250 people attended a meeting to urge the City Council to not enforce dog bans in the parks. BARC has since been growing its base of supporters, who can join the organization through their website at www.beverlybarc.com. As BARC continues its efforts, it hopes for more dog owners and dog supporters to join to promote fair access to the parks and the creation of off-leash areas within Beverly.
"BARC has researched many communities who have successfully implemented off-leash recreational areas to support the dog-owning public," said Bill Collins, BARC representative. "We'd like to pattern the successes of Boston (Boston Common), Manchester (Singing Beach), Cambridge (Fresh Pond), and Newport Rhode Island, among others, in creating off leash areas. Many of these areas are not fenced in, but are simply designated off leash areas or hours, and are coordinated through volunteer efforts to ensure their success. The concern for people who do not wish to associate with dogs can be alleviated through specific areas where off-leash activity is allowed, so that other areas are strictly on-leash. If dog owners have options, there is no need for non-compliance in other areas. They would have a place of their own. Given the current economic conditions, we believe this is a good solution that doesn't cost the city money."
BARC will continue to encourage the city to consider positive, creative solutions to the issues, regardless of the outcome of the recent Parks and Recreation proposal. Through ongoing initiatives, community involvement and a growing base of members, BARC hopes to foster more positive relations between the large population of dog owners and the city. BARC will also continue to urge the city council to resolve the conflicting city ordinances governing dogs, and to create a "canine commission" of volunteer dog owners to work with the city on dog-related issues and concerns.
"Owning dogs is a recreational activity enjoyed by up to 35% of the population and is growing steadily, as people discover the enjoyment of dog companionship," said Janet Gottschalk, BARC member. "It is a wholesome recreation enjoyed by all ages and physical levels, and is a great way to get out and be a vital part of the community. Provided that people act responsibly with their dogs, I can't imagine why Beverly doesn't want to encourage involvement of this activity and support it within the community."
To join BARC or to learn more, visit the BARC website at www.beverlybarc.com.
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