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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