Sylvan Lakers apparently have plenty to say about cannabis and aquatic canines.
Almost 500 people had responded as of Wednesday to a town survey (which ends Friday) on whether a section of lakefront should be reserved so dogs can take a dip. About 60 people turned up for a March 14 open house.
The town has not seen that kind of public response since residents were asked to weigh in on cannabis last year. About 700 people took part in the cannabis conversation, said Joanne Gaudet, the town’s communications officer.
“It’s definitely one of the more compelling topics we’ve encountered,” said Gaudet of the latest hot topic.
“The consultation is happening because we’ve heard overwhelmingly from the public that they want us to consider access to the lake for dogs.
“How that will look, is what we’re seeking some feedback on now.”
A short survey posted on the town’s website asks if residents support a designated area for dogs and whether it should be a fenced off-leash area or a spot for leashed dogs.
Three off-leash proposals in the 38th and 39th Street areas are presented, with respondents asked to pick their favourite. Survey takers can also indicate their opposition to dog access, or their preference that it be a leashed area only.
Gaudet said the issue of setting aside part of the lakefront for paddling pooches has come up regularly, and was brought up a number of times during public consultations that were part of the background work for the Sustainable Waterfront Area Redevelopment Plan.
That plan aims to create a vision for the entire waterfront area, including Sylvan Lake Park and the former site of Wild Rapids Waterslides.
Last August, the swimming dog issue landed on town council’s desks, when a resident wrote a letter asking the town to follow the lead of other lakefront communities and put aside an area for dogs.
“Frankly, being told that as a resident, I must drive out to Half Moon Bay, or Kuusamo, or even Sunbreaker Cove to allow my dog to swim is ludicrous,” wrote the dog owner.
pcowley@reddeeradvocate.com
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