Residents Debate New Dog Park Law

Some three-dozen concerned residents gathered at Town Hall last night to discuss how to implement the new off-leash dog law in Robbins Farm Park.

In May, Arlington Town Meeting approved a by-law that would allow responsible dog owners to have their dogs off-leash during limited morning hours in specified town parks.  Since the law went into effect, homeowners near the park have complained about added noise and dogs wondering into their yards. Parents have qualms about dog allergies and their children's safety, as they claim unleashed dogs also roam unfenced playground areas. But dog-owners insist they're monitoring their dogs and policing themselves the best they can.

"We do try to move around to different areas of the park, so we're not imposing on anyone," dog-owner Nancy Rhodes said. "But that's unpredictable, so the people that want to avoid us can't. It's difficult to balance the needs of the public and the dog-owners."

Residents suggested adding a dogs-only area to the park, increasing the buffer-zone to allow for more distance between dogs and people and changing the off-leash hours.

"There's no reason why we can't coexist peacefully," resident Robin Varghese said. "We just need to provide alternatives for those people who wish to avoid the dogs."

One solution residents agreed upon was to create a large, dogs-only area in the center of the park. Such a provision would protect homeowners' privacy, ensure children's safety and provide dogs and their owners with the space they need.

The Director of the Parks and Recreation Committee will review the citizens' comments and suggestions. The Parks and Recreation Committee will make a decision on how to implement the by-law in the upcoming weeks.