Push Pooch Park — A presentation to Summerland Town Council

UPDATE

The outcome from tonight’s meeting of Summerland Town council regarding the Peach Orchard Dog Park is very positive. The mayor explained his motion and his desire to continue to build consensus around this contentious matter. In response council while appreciating his intent disagreed. Initially concerns were expressed about the costs, historic and future if the mayor’s strategy were adopted. In a good discussion it became evident that most councillors, many having conducted their own additional research, have arrived at the conclusion that the Peach Orchard site is the best available. They went further and brainstormed how the present pop-up park could be modified in response to legitimate concerns expressed by various stakeholders including neighbours. In the end a new motion was placed on the floor to “make the temporary park permanent.” The motion was carried with two objections. Council and staff and the will now dialogue about a way forward; they further suggested including the ideas of owners and organizations such as the Summerland Dog Owners Association (SDOA). As a latecomer to this conversation, one that has continued for something like 11-14 years I want to commend the SDOA and other friends who have always tried to take the dialogical high road in what has been at times a difficult and emotional dialogue. Well done folks; there is more work to do, but for now, be grateful for a good outcome.  

Good evening everyone.

I am Ken Gray, 9723 Thompson Rd. I am here tonight, in spirit, with my four-year-old Labradoodle, Juno. I bring her photo as I was unsure if she was welcome here tonight. Actually I wonder how well she is welcome here in Summerland. Let me explain.

Juno is a well-known dog blogger whose blog “Summerland: The Town where dogs should not be seen or heard” originally posted on Sept 28, 2023 has received 386 views since posting, a number hardly viral, though significant.

Juno and I are among many who hope the now temporary Peach Orchard dog park will be made permanent. We still wonder: Why is it deemed impossible to retain the Peach Orchard site? It is designated high value recreational land in an accessible location—considering persons with disabilities; parking; environment; size, and proximity to other recreational amenities. Other communities with similar assets have found a way for stakeholders to co-exist. Why not Summerland?

An Oliver resident commented on Juno’s blog: “We in Oliver have our dog park right beside the park for everyone. It is fenced and sectioned for large dogs and one for smaller dogs. The park is across from a line of six houses. There are no complaints from anyone.”

Then there’s Kelowna, Fernie, Victoria, and Kamloops. Kamloops hosts a number of fenced areas close to, and in view of high value real estate. The land is spacious, well appointed, secure, and serviced with water and in some cases, shelters.

Allow me to share three responses to Juno’s recent blog:

“This park is such a wonderful bonus for Summerland!  People from Penticton use it; tourists are thrilled to have a dog park to take their dogs to, and us locals so enjoy the park and the people we meet there. My dogs are richer for the interaction with other dogs and people. This is socialization and this is community!

What a great gift from the municipality to dog owners in Summerland and for those passing through!

It is a great addition to our community.”

Whether the pop-up park is removed, or a permanent park is established, there is no solution possible that will not offend someone. So council, gird your loins, and please, decide. It’s time.

Thank you