H3. Create Dog ParkCity of Kalispell
Post Office Box 1997 - Kalispell, Montana 59903
N—M Telephone: (406) 758-7701 Fax: (406) 758-7758
MONTANA
MEMORANDUM
To: Mayor Johnson and City Council
From: Doug Russell, City Manager {�
Re: Creation of an off -leash dog area at Begg Park
Meeting Date: March 20, 2017
BACKGROUND: At a recent work session, Council received an update related to the
community outreach effort related to the potential conversion of 3.5 acres at Begg Park to an off -
leash dog area (see attached memo). During discussion, council requested funding alternatives
to be brought forward as there was some concern expressed in using tax increment financing for
this project despite it being included in the South Kalispell Urban Renewal Plan. Below are
several alternatives to consider for funding the estimated $50,000 for fencing and drainage
improvements to create the off -leash area:
1) Tax Increment Financing- This is still an option for consideration as the project is
identified in the South Kalispell Urban Renewal Plan, though there has been some
expressed hesitancy to use this source.
2) General Fund- Council could appropriate $50,000 from the designated capital line
item in the budget. Ending balance is estimated to be about $200,000.
3) Parks Budget- The parks budget currently has an estimated ending balance of
$563,716, 3 1. 1 % of expenditures. Using $50,000 from this unappropriated balance
would leave an estimated balance of $513,716, 28.4% of expenditures.
4) General Fund FYI budget- Council could elect to postpone deliberation of this issue
until reviewing the FYI 8 budget and appropriate through the general fund at that
time, adjusting mill rates as needed.
Considering the discussion Council has had on this topic, staff is recommending using the parks
budget to proceed with this project.
It is worth noting that "Paws to Play" is offering to contribute $10,000 to this immediate effort in
order to lower the city's contribution for the fencing and drainage. Initially, their contributions
were going to provide enhancements (benches and other amenities) to the facility. Wanting to
help get this project started, they have made this offer in the attached letter.
FISCAL IMPACT: With the financial assistance from "Paws to Play" the financial impact to
the City of Kalispell would be $40,000.
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council authorize an expenditure of
$50,000 (includes the $10,000 from Paws to Play) in the Parks budget for the conversion of a
portion of Begg Park to and off -leash dog area.
ATTACHMENTS:
Letter from Paws to Play, Revised Map and
Previous Work Session Memo and materials
To: Mayor Mark Johnson and Members of the Kalispell City Council
From: Paws to Play Steering Committee
Re: Begg Park Dog Park
As a volunteer group of Kalispell residents, Paws to Play is committed to the development and
maintenance of a quality, off leash dog park in Kalispell. If the City Council determines that an
off leash dog park is feasible for Begg Park and commits the 3.5 acres to this purpose, Paws to
Play supports this decision.
With the City of Kalispell investing in drainage improvements and fencing, Paws to Play can
apply for grants and seek other funds to phase in amenities such that we have the best possible
park. We believe that certain amenities must be in place from the start, and will use the bulk of
what we have raised to date to pay for these things (waste disposal stations, garbage cans,
some benches, etc.). As a demonstration of our commitment to this project - and that of the
many community members who entrusted us with their money and support - we pledge an
immediate donation of $10,000 toward the fencing and drainage upon council approval of this
change of use for a significant portion of Begg Park.
We will work directly with the City Manager and the Director of Parks and Recreation to ensure
the funds are transferred in a timely manner and planning for the first phase of Begg Park Dog
Park allows for a spring/summer (weather permitting!) opening of Kalispell's first off leash dog
pa rk.
Any questions can be addressed to our team at pawstoplaydogpark@gmail.com.
Thank you,
Paws to Play Steering Committee
Paws to Play . PO Box 3571 Kalispell, MT 59903 . pawstoplaydogpark@gmail.com . pawstoplay.org
Paws to Play is a project of the Flathead Community Foundation, a 501(c)3 nonprofit based in Kalispell, Montana.
LSE` City of Kalispell
201 1 sc Ave E. P.O. Box 1997
_,. Kalispell, Montana 59903-1997
M`U,�11TA11'.�1 (406) 758-7757 Fax (406) 758-7758
REPORT TO: Doug Russell, City Manager
FROM: Chad Fincher, Director, Parks and Recreation
SUBJECT: Begg Park Dog Park — South Kalispell Urban Renewal District
MEETING DATE: February 27, 2017
BACKGROUND: The City and Paws to Play (a volunteer fundraising organization), have been working
together to coordinate the options for a dog park in Kalispell's city limits. After consideration of
available sites, it has been determined that Begg Park is the best suited site within the current city park
system.
On January 25, Parks and Recreation held an open house on the creation of a dog park at Begg Park. We
mailed 779 letters on January 12, informing nearby property owners of the open house to discuss the
proposed dog park. In attendance at the open house were 6 representatives from Paws to Play and 11
neighborhood citizens. Topics of discussion included: concerns with parking and traffic congestion
during ball games, city insurance approval, design issues, use of underutilized land, and loss of parkland
in the area.
Since the open house we have received approximately 14 letters and/or email responses, of which there
was 1 in opposition and 13 in favor of the dog park. On January 26, we sent the proposed dog park
design and location to MMIA for their review. Their review didn't find any design concerns or liability on
a dog park at this location.
City staff has developed a plan for fencing, site work and amenities for the first phase of construction of
an approximate 3 1/2 acre dog park at Begg Park. The first phase of construction would include fencing, a
drainage system/water feature to divert surface water, concrete disbursement slabs at the bullpen
entrances, irrigation and landscaping. It is estimated this work will cost $49,935. To date Paws to Play
has fundraised towards installation of supporting amenities such as benches, doggie waste stations, and
signage. Staff is requesting that council consider utilizing tax increment finance district funding to
complete construction of the first phase of the dog park.
FISCAL IMPACT: Approximately $49,935 of South Kalispell Urban Renewal Plan Tax Increment
funding would be needed for the construction of the first phase of the dog park. This funding would be
used for expenses related to the drainage system, fencing, bridges, concrete disbursement slabs at
entrances, irrigation modifications and landscaping.
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council hear the presentation and discuss the
use of Begg park for this purpose and provide staff direction in relation to the option.
ATTACHMENTS: Begg Park Dog Park map
Project Cost Estimates
Emails & letter
GIS Map
- five gago P4.1&
k
Parks and Recreation Dept
Begg Park
Proposed Dog Park Project Cost Estimates
Fencing
Drainage/water feature, 2 bridges, landscaping
Concrete disbursement slabs
Irrigation
$35,135
$10,000
$2,800
$2,000
$49,935
3061 s` Avenue East, P.O. Box 1997, Kalispell, MT 59903 —Phone (406)758-7718— Fax (406)758-7719
Peter Pelchen
2015 Teal Drive
Kalispell, MT. 59901
January 31st, 2017
To: City Manager
Re: Proposed Dog Park at Begg Park
Dear City Manager,
I was unable to attend the open house / forum scheduled last Monday (01/25/2017) due
to having another commitment however, l would still like to share my perspective about
this topic with you. I have been a dog owner/lover for many years, our last being a
Lab/Chesapeake cross who died of cancer at the age of eleven. Besides my comments I
also wanted to share two web -sites which I found especially helpful in considering the
pros/cons regarding dog parks:
http://www. pedigree.com/AI I-Things-DoglArticle-Library/Pros-cons-of-dog-pa rks.aspx
https://apdt.com/pet-owners/dog-park/pros-and-cons/
In short, my vote would be against any decision to alter Begg Park to include a dog park. I
believe a park such as this should not be surrounded by homes. The dog -park in Helena
is fabulous, just behind Carol College it borders a its complex - no residential homes
in sight (or ear shot). Check it out, maybe it could serve as a model for Kalispell?
I couldn't help but notice while reading from one of the web -sites mentioned above, a
long (very long in fact) list of things that dog owners should be knowledgeable of and
doing when they visit such a park. Here are two examples:
• If you know your dog has aggressive tendencies, don't bring him to an off -leash park. There are
plenty of other ways to exercise him. At the very least, muzzle him and avoid pronged collars.
• Keep a watchful eye on un-neutered male dogs and make sure they aren't harassing other dogs.
Who will be responsible for enforcing these and the many other recommendations that
are made by dog professionals who give these and other warnings? I can tell you the
answer to that question...
This is the closest park for my wife and I to take our grandchildren. I believe the motto
for all existing parks in Kalispell should be: "PEOPLE and families first". Could a dog park
be a consideration when acquisition to a new piece of land comes along in the future? As
our community grows could this be a priority for use of tax revenues if a genuine interest
continues? I believe the introduction of a dog park should be in a new area situated
away from existing residences. If you do this, and new home development then comes
subsequent to the park, the people buying homes in such an area will be able to weigh
that into their planning, not unlike we considered the existence of the city airport when
we purchased our home on Teal Drive.
it's good that Paws -to -Play have fundraised for a few benches, several poo-bag stations,
and signs. While that is helpful I'm sure, fencing three acres and some of the water
issues to be addressed will cost'big dollars' by comparison to that. Has our elected
council members ever considered asking the people to whom the open house - forum
letters were sent for their input how they might like to see $30 - 50,000 or more used to
improve Begg Park and see what response might come back from a letter like that? it's
another way of going about collecting data from the people... Who knows what good
ideas you might come from the people already living in this neighborhood, such as myself
and my wife? I hope you move cautiously on this one, and thank you for considering my
perspective on the matter.
Sincerely,
Peter P. Pelchen
Lisa Simmer
From: Kalispell City Council
Sent: Monday, February 06, 2017 10:14 AM
To: Chad Fincher
Subject: FW: Dog Park
From: t.laurel@ymail.com [mailto:t.laurel@ymall.comj
Sent: Saturday, February 04, 2017 6:26 PM
To: Kalispell City Council
Subject: Dog Park
We need a dog park herein Kalispell! Seem like Whitefish is ahead of us in everything.
Thanks,
Laurel Thompson
If&
FREE Animations for your email
Lisa Simmer
From:
Aimee Brunckhorst
Sent:
Monday, February 06, 201710:10 AM
To:
Chad Fincher
Subject:
FW: Kalispell [dog Park
From: Kristi Thompson [maiito:thompsonkll@yahoo.com]
Sent: Saturday, February 04, 2017 11:18 AM
To: Kalispell City Council
Subject: Kalispell Dog Park
Good morning, City Council members,
Ever since Whitefish built their wonderful dog park my enthusiasm for a dog park in Kalispell has
grown by leaps and bounds!! ! Since I live in Somers, a trip to Whitefish for my dog has been a limited
affair. I believe I have only taken her a total of three tunes.
I work at the Visitor Center at the Chamber of Commerce on the weekends during the summer. You
would not believe the number of tourists that come in to ask where they can take their dog and just let
them run and play without a leash. I have no other alternative but to give them directions to the dog
park in Whitefish. I am hoping this summer I will be able to give them directions to Begg Park
instead!! !
Please vote to build Kalispell a beautiful dog park. I have no doubt the community of dog lovers in this
area will rally behind you!! l
Thank you for your time,
Kristi Thompson
Lisa Simmer
From: Aimee Brunckhorst
Sent: Monday, February 06, 201710.07 AM
To: Chad Fincher
Subject: FW: Dog park
-----Original Message ----
From: taska_i@yahoo.com [mailto:taska_I@yahoo,com]
Sent: Friday, February 03, 2017 7:26 PM
To: Kalispell City Council
Subject: [log park
Dear council,
i have lived in Kalispell for almost three years and have wished for a local dog park from the time I moved here. I
currently drive to Whitefish on the weekends in order to allow my dogs time to run and socialize. These are important
for their well-being especially since we live in an apartment. While this isn't an ideal location I still welcome it with open
arms so that my dogs can play on a more regular basis. Thank you for your time and I hope to see this project continue
to move forward.
Sincerely,
Taska Larsen
Teacher
Crossroads Behavior Program
Sent from my iPhone
Lisa Simmer
From: Aimee Brunckhorst
Sent: Monday, February 06, 201710:07 AM
To: Chad Fincher
Subject: FW: Pays park
From: syivia kerchner[mailto:sylvia.kerchner@gmail.cwm]
Sent: Friday, February 03, 2017 7:23 PM
To: Kalispell City Council
Subject: Paws park
Please vote to support the establishment of a dog park in Kalispell.
Thank you,
Sylvia Kerchner
418 3rd Ave E
Kalispell
Lisa Simmer
From: Aimee Brunckhorst
Sent: Monday, February 06, 201710:09 AM
To: Chad Fincher
Subject: FW: Begg Park dog park.
From: pullen_aces [mailio.puilen_aces@ayahoo.com]
Sent: Saturday, February 04, 2017 7:14 AM
To: Kalispell City Council
Subject: Begg Park dog park.
I would like see this happen. Thank you Richard A Thompson
Sent from my Verizon, Samsung Galaxy smartphone
Lisa Simmer
Subject: FW: Public Comment FW: Support of Kalispell Dog Park
From: Aimee Brunckhorst
Sent: Tuesday, February 07, 20171:33 PM
To: Chad Fincher <cfincher@kaliMft l.com>; Chad Graham <cgraham@kallspell.com>; Doug Russell
<drussell@kalispell.eom>;Jim Atkinson <iatkinsor:@kalispell.com>; Kari Gabriel <kgabriel@kalispell.com>; Mark Johnson
<mjohnson kalistrell.com>; Phil Guiffrida <pguiffrida@kalispell.com>; Rod Kuntz <rkuntz@kalispell.com>; Sandy
Carlson <scarlson@kalispell.com>; Tim Kluesner<tkluesner@kalispell.com>; Wayne Saverud <wsaverud@kalispell.com>
Subject: Public Comment FW: Support of Kalispell Dog Park
From: Lawrence Brabham mail :lvbrabham mail m]
Sent: Tuesday, February 07, 2017 1:28 PM
To: Aimee Brunckhorst
Subject: Support of Kalispell Dog Park
Attention: Aimee Brankhorst
Kalispell City Clerk, Communications Manager
201 1 st Ave E. Kalispell, MT 59901
Dear Ms. Brunkhorst,
My name is Lawrence Brabham. I'm writing in regard to the proposed dog park in Kalispell, that I
understand to be potentially installed in Begg Park, across from the Lakers Field on Begg Park Drive. I
have come to understand that there have been some concerns regarding the proposal, and wanted to
write to address yourself and the City Council as I believe very strongly that our community could
benefit very much from a community dog park, and I know that I myself and a great deal of people I
have spoken to are thrilled at the prospect and are very hopeful that it comes to fruition.
As a long time resident in that housing development off of Airport road, in homes on South Meadows
Dr and Merganser, I have watched the development grow from just a few homes over the last twenty
years. During that time, I have always noted that Begg Park has been quite underutilized, with generally
very few visitors. I can think of no better purpose to revamp the land and to make better use than a dog
park.
As dog owner, I can certainly extol the virtues of having a place to take our animals to get some exercise
in a friendly and controlled environment. As a father, I can tell you that in the constant struggle to get
my children unglued from their electronics and outside for some fresh air and exercise, the dog park is
one destination that I rarely get an argument from them on. It's a fantastic place to take the family and
spend happy quality time. To that end, we have been in the habit of making the approximately 36 mile
round trip to Wag Park in Whitefish at least once or twice a month. Having one locally in our town
would be such a blessing.
The caliber of dog owners that are concerned enough with their pets well being to take them to the park
are almost overwhelmingly generally very conscientious in general, and very good about containing
their pets and cleaning up after them. A short amount of time spent at Wag Parr can show you that no
concerns need to be had regarding any detrimental effects to the surrounding neighborhood.
There is no situation I can think of in which a dog park would not be a wonderful addition to our
community. I would be happy to do anything needed to help support it.
Thank you so much for your time and consideration.
Lawrence Brabham
1126 4th St W. Kalispell, Mfi 59901
(406) 212-3268
Lisa Simmer
MOMMONNNUM
From-, Aimee Bmnckh/st
Sent Monday, February O62O17lU:1SAM
To: [hadFinchwr
Subject FW: Dog park
---Origina|Message ---
From: Sandy Palmer [naUto:sandvandthor@gJnaiLcon]
Sent: Saturday, February [4'28171O:48PK8
To: Kalispell City Council
Subject: Dog park
Kalispell needs edog park. idrive 2tabs and apug towhite fish once week when weather permits.
They |uvit. And sodo|.vote
Sent from my|Phone
Lisa Simmer
From:
Aimee Brunckhorst
Sent:
Monday, February 06, 2017 10:D8 AM
To:
Chad Fincher
Subject:
FW: DOG PARK
From: Lloyd Jones [mailto:6231loyd@gmaii.com)
Sent: Friday, February 03, 2017 7:58 PM
To: Kalispell city Council
Subject: DOG PARK
I strongly support the creation of a dog park at Begg Park and encourage the City Council to bring this
initiative forward.
Sincerely,
LLOYD JONES
418 3RD AVE.---EAST
KALISPELL, NIT. 59901
Lisa Simmer
From:
Aimee8runckhrst
Sent;
Monday, Feb meyD6,20710:11AM
To:
[hedRnrher
Subject:
FW. Kalispell dog park
From: MonteenFeld1[maUto,nlontean@VaveDn.cunx
Sent: Saturday, February 04,3017 2:04PM
To: Kalispell City Council
Subject: Kalispell dog park
ToWhom ItMay Concern,
I am contacting you to share my support of the proposed dog park located at Bcgg Park. As a ZO+
year resident of Kalispell, always having 2-3 dogs /n our family, it would enrich all of our lives to
have this as o local outdoor off -leash activity option. This park speaks tothe love of nature and
anirne|a that is embodied in our area by so many.
I urge you Lmsupport the necessary funding allocation needed to make a dog park in the city of
Kalispell areality.
Thank you,
Montmen Fe|dt
64OConrad Drive