100 signatures reached
To: City of East Ridge Officials
Petition to Keep the Dog Park at its Current Location
We, the undersigned members of the community, strongly oppose the removal of our town’s dog park to make way for a parking lot. The current dog park, located behind the police station, is a safe, accessible, and well-maintained space that serves as an important resource for local pet owners.
The decision to eliminate the dog park in favor of additional parking for the new pavilion is concerning for several reasons:
• Safety & Security – The current location, near the police station, provides a secure environment for residents and their pets.
• Established Facilities – The park already has necessary infrastructure, whereas the proposed relocation sites present serious concerns.
• Flooding Risks – The alternative locations are in flood-prone areas, which would make the park unusable at times and increase maintenance issues.
• Health & Safety Hazards – The proposed locations have documented issues with homelessness and drug use, with several residents having found used needles, posing a serious risk to dogs and their owners.
• Noise Is Not a Justification – The area already experiences significant noise from the police and fire departments, as well as neighborhood dogs. A dog park does not introduce a new disturbance.
A parking lot should not come at the expense of a valued community space. We urge town officials to explore alternative solutions that do not require sacrificing our only designated off-leash area for dogs.
Please sign below to show your support for keeping the dog park in its current location.
Why is this important?
The dog park is more than just a convenience—it’s a vital part of our community that promotes safety, social connection, and responsible pet ownership. Here’s why preserving it in its current location is so important:
1. Safety & Security – Its proximity to the police station provides peace of mind for pet owners, especially in the evenings. Relocating it to areas with known safety concerns—such as a history of drug use and homelessness—puts both people and pets at risk.
2. Health & Well-being – Dogs need safe, designated spaces to exercise and socialize. Without a proper off-leash area, dogs may become less socialized, increasing behavioral issues. This also impacts owners, many of whom rely on the park for their pets’ physical and mental stimulation.
3. Flooding & Usability – The alternative locations are prone to flooding, making the park inaccessible at times and increasing maintenance costs. The current location remains dry and functional year-round.
4. Community & Connection – The dog park isn’t just for dogs—it’s a place where neighbors meet, friendships form, and responsible pet ownership is encouraged. Losing it would mean losing an important community hub.
5. A Parking Lot Is Not Worth the Loss – Sacrificing a well-used, well-loved community space for additional parking—especially when alternative solutions could exist—is a short-sighted decision that prioritizes cars over people and pets.
We believe the town should prioritize keeping the dog park where it is, ensuring both pets and people continue to have a safe and accessible place to gather.