Sincerely yours,
Caroline McKenzie Appling
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From: John Snedigar < com>
Sent: Friday, January 28, 2022 6:34 PM
To: City Council <[email protected]>
Subject: voicing my opposition to the dog park proposed for McKenzie Park Hello there, members of Los Altos City Council. I'm sure you're hearing from opponents and proponents of the dog park that's proposed for McKenzie Park. I'm writing to register my strong opposition.
I live with my wife and two kids on Clinton Road. My daughter (who's now 9 years old) and I have a weekly ritual of walking or riding our bikes to McKenzie. And you would think that with the larger park right at the end of our street, we would spend our time there. But no. Every time we go to the park (usually Saturday mornings), my daughter cruises right through the larger part of the park and heads straight to the climbing structure adjacent to the tennis courts. I asked her once why she insists on traveling to that particular part of the park, and she said it's "because she loves the climbing structure," and she also "likes watching people play tennis." Attached is a pic dated Jan 31 of last year - a year ago this coming Monday!
Now, my daughter's reasons for wanting to preserve the area in question are cute and sentimental to me, because I have countless fond memories of spending time with her in that part of the park shortly after she learned to walk, up to the present day. But that sentimentality isn't reason enough to oppose the creation of a dog park.
My opposition is rooted in what I've observed over many years spending my Saturdays in that spot with my daughter. I was surprised to learn how such a small triangle of greenspace is enjoyed by a wide range of people for a variety of purposes.
I've seen people pick up lunch at Rancho and walk over to picnic on the lawn.
I've seen people with walkers and in wheelchairs spend time under the big redwood trees (presumably folks in the sub-acute facility down the road - usually accompanied visiting family members. For many of those people, it could be the only half-hour they spend outside the entire week - how nice it must be for them to venture out for a short walk to enjoy the nearby greenspace).
During the week, I've seen staff from the nearby medical offices enjoying a break or lunch in the park.
Lastly, I've seen many other kids enjoy the climbing structure as my daughter and I have over the years.
My point here is to highlight that a wide range of people enjoy that small triangle of greenspace for a wide range of reasons. It's a great example of parkspace being used as it's intended - to be enjoyed by everyone for a variety of purposes.
To convert that area from multi-purpose space to a single purpose does a disservice to the land. And that doesn't even begin to address the aesthetic consequences of converting beautiful greenspace into a fenced-in dog park, not to mention potential long-term damage to the trees.
As city council members of Los Altos, you are temporary stewards of our shared public spaces. Decisions you make today will have implications that will far-outlive your time in office. Your vote carries great 676
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weight. I ask you to please look within and ask yourselves if you want your legacy to be one of standing up for and protecting the beauty of our parks, and preserving their inclusive use by everyone.
If you are opposed to the dog park at McKenzie, thank you for showing leadership on this complex issue.
If you are in favor of the dog park at McKenzie, I respectfully ask you to reconsider.
Thank you.
John Snedigar
908 Clinton Road
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PUBLIC CORRESPONDENCE
The following is public correspondence received by the City Clerk’s Office after the posting of the original agenda. Individual contact information has been redacted for privacy. This may not be a comprehensive collection of the public correspondence, but staff makes its best effort to include all correspondence received to date.
To send correspondence to the City Council, on matters listed on the agenda please email [email protected]
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From: Rashmi Sinha
To: [email protected]; Public Comment
Subject: Opposition to eliminating open space at McKenzie Park - Feb 8 Council Meeting Date: Monday, January 31, 2022 5:53:59 PM
Dear All Council Members,
I a writing in earnest to reconsider your decision about changing the face of the western section of McKenzie park for a dog park - this change will be permanent and damaging for so many reasons -
1. It is a soothing open space, which is used by many residents, young and senior alike. We regularly use it when we walk the pathway next to it and rest for a while on the benches. The shaded green area is a pleasure and a balm for the soul.
2. We moved to Los Altos and built our house here for the attraction of green trees which are the big appeal of this city. We were "required" to plant many many trees on our property to pass the inspection, which we happily complied to. The upkeep of the trees has been a priority for us. Same way, we expect that the upkeep of the cityowned trees is a priority for the city council. I am not sure how the trees in this green space will fare with so many dogs visiting on a daily basis. Has an arborist studied this and given a formal report that we can see?
3. We are in a pandemic right now. There is lesser traffic and more dogs, which might spur some to think that we need a dog park. Reality is that the pandemic is not permanent, but the damage to the green space and trees will be permanent if the space is converted to a dog park.
4. Let us "maintain and preserve" the jewels that we already have - the open green space, the trees, the soothing pathway next to the green space, the relaxed beautiful feel of the community which regularly takes advantage of this area.
Thanks,
Rashmi and Vikram
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From: Megan Marwede
To: Public Comment
Subject: Preserving Open Space at McKenzie Park
Date: Tuesday, February 1, 2022 11:47:54 AM
Attention: All council members,
I urge you to reconsider your decision to fence in the western section of McKenzie park for a dog park for the following reasons:
1) Fencing this area removes open green space of which we have so little in Los Altos. The city will be causing recreational displacement of many other groups of people - especially all of the people who are spending more time outdoors because of the pandemic.
2) Serious long term jeopardy to the many heritage trees. There has been no official arborist input and most likely will shorten the lifespan of the trees. 3) There has been no demonstrated demand for a fenced area in south Los Altos.
You have seen that there is demand for a fenced dog park near Hillview but not here.
4) Focus on the Hillview project first, then determine if a second park is needed or wanted before irrevocably damaging McKenzie. The Hillview site is going to use a repurposed parking lot - not open green space.
Thankyou for considering my proposals.
Megan Marwede and Dave Rich
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From: Gordon Snedigar
To: Public Comment
Subject: McKenzie Park West, proposed dog park
Date: Tuesday, February 1, 2022 12:05:54 PM
Feb. 1, 2022
Los Altos City Council,
Re: Proposed Dog Park at Mc Kenzie Park, West;
A regional study of park acreage shows Los Altos at the bottom of the list in providing adequate parkland for residents. It would be a shame to lose even more open space for the exclusive use of dogs to run off-leash.
I was at McKenzie Park West yesterday and was reminded what a jewel of a park-setting it is, quiet, shaded and surrounded by majestic trees. It’s hard to imagine this serenity being replaced with a durable surface only dogs would like, including permanent fencing around the trees to guard against dogs urinating, all surrounded by a new perimeter fence to deter residents without dogs from entering.
Any effort to take away existing open green space would be contrary to serving the needs of all Los Altans. Even more important now, more residents are working from home and need the convenience of nearby parks to reenergize during the day or visit with family for fun and exercise.
When dog owners feel the need to have their dogs run off-leash, there are many existing facilities in nearby towns including Rengstorff and Shoreline Parks in Mt View and the new dog park being developed at the Hillview Baseball Field.
Please reconsider your position to transform McKenzie Park West into an exclusive fenced-in dog park, and instead, allow the existing open space to remain as it is, for all residents of Los Altos to enjoy.
Thank you,
Respectfully,
Rebecca & Gordon Snedigar
1965 Churton Avenue, Los Altos, CA
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From: Administration
To: Public Comment
Subject: FW: WYSIATI decision mistake on the McKenzie Park Dog Park Date: Tuesday, February 1, 2022 2:40:30 PM
From: Richard White < com>
Sent: Friday, January 28, 2022 10:46 AM
To: Anita Enander <[email protected]>; Sally Meadows <[email protected]>; Neysa Fligor <[email protected]>; Lynette Lee Eng <[email protected]>; Jonathan Weinberg <[email protected]>
Cc: Administration <[email protected]>
Subject: WYSIATI decision mistake on the McKenzie Park Dog Park Councilmembers Enander, Meadows, Fligor, Eng and Weinberg, I recently finished reading a book written by Nobel prize winner in economics, Daniel Kahneman entitled "Thinking, Fast and Slow". I would highly recommend it to you decision makers. He describes many of the biases and errors we humans tend to make in decision making which prevents us from making optimal, rational choices. One he highlights which is a recurring theme in the book, he describes with the acronym WYSIATI -- "What You See Is All There Is". Basically, when faced with an issue requiring a decision, we tend to make a decision based on the information that is presented, rather than asking, "What is the information needed to make the best decision?". I was able to participate in the remote council meeting in which park staff presented the dog park options to you. I don't know what resources and time park staff had to make their presentation, but to me that presentation seemed woefully lacking in providing you the information to make even preliminary choices among the options. It seems to me you really need:
1) What is the current state and usage of the areas proposed for the dog park, 2) What would be at least a preliminary design concept of how that area would be changed by constructing a dog park.
With regard to McKenzie park, we would be losing a peaceful little grove with magnificent Redwood and Oak trees and green grass, that many of us walk through and enjoy spending time in.
On the other hand, the section of Heritage Oaks park that would be developed has mostly been what seems to be a dumping ground for unwanted tree mulch and (I just counted) 8 dead trees. I'll attach a link to my suggestions for the layout of each location in which you will see that the Heritage Oaks option is significantly larger (65%) even when setting up a substantial buffer along McKenzie Ave adjacent to the park. I can appreciate the concerns of the residents adjacent to the park -- the potential noise of barking dogs, the potential unpleasant smell and the potential unsightliness of a chain-link dog park. In my dog encounter experience, dogs bark at each other when they pass by on leashes. When together, off leash there is much more butt smelling going on than barking. I don't know about the smell, but the prevailing summer wind would blow across the dog park away from most of the McKenzie Ave residents. With creative landscaping in the buffer zone I described, the dog park could be substantially out of sight of the residents. I'm also fairly confident in predicting that dog owners who would be users of the park would prefer that Heritage Oaks site. 682
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You aren't forced into making a WYSIATI mistake here. There is unanimous agreement on the Hillview site and apparently a much higher demand for a dog park in that area of the city. Build the dog park there. Find out if it is noisy and smelly. If it is neither, and you can visually isolate the Heritage Oaks site from the nearby residents, then maybe their continued resistance is not reasonable. You don't really know what the demand is for a dog park in South Los Altos. My wife had previously canvassed neighbors on Clinton Rd, Altos Oaks Dr. and Manor Way. She submitted that petition to the city council with 60 signatures of our neighbors who didn't want to give up McKenzie park West for a dog park, many of them dog owners. I doubt that sentiment has changed since it was submitted. It would be tragic to lose McKenzie Park west to a dog park that in the end, not that many people in South Los Altos want and would use. I will also attach a link to a University of Pennsylvania paper describing encountered problems with six dog parks that were studied, including damage to trees within the dog park and issues that keep dog owners from bringing their dogs to dog parks -- transmitted diseases, aggressive dogs, and irresponsible dog owners. My position on this is not NIMBY. I live about half way down Clinton Road. Heritage Oaks park is closer to me than McKenzie park west. I also walk through Heritage Oaks on a regular basis.
Sincerely
Richard White
928 Clinton Rd
Los Altos
South Los Altos Dog Park Options
https://repository.upenn.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1017&context=mes_capstones 683
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From: Melinda Reed
To: Public Comment
Subject: Public Comment 2/8/22 item #7 Park just for Dogs Date: Tuesday, February 1, 2022 9:24:27 PM
Dear Council Members,
As a former Los Altos resident, who lived a few houses from McKenzie Park, my husband and I spent years protecting it as precious green space, from the City of Los Altos' attempts to designate it for other use, despite its original design and function. Please resist efforts to make it into a cleared lot, just for Dogs, instead of preserving the intention of this land gift to the city long ago.
Trees line that end of the park with meandering paths, tennis courts, benches and climbing structures that you are considering removing. Designed landscaping, installed as a "buffer" for McKenzie residents, mitigated the City's Corporation yard from impacting neighboring backyards. The trucks, traffic, noise, and dust are “contained” within McKenzie Park and surrounded by trees, which today are maturing to their intended use.
About 2001, Los Altos School District moved their Maintenance yard from Covington School to McKenzie Park to combine the city and school district's twin needs of building materials and vehicle storage, construction workshops, and parking.
Now the redwoods, while not yet heritage size, have developed beautifully into the town's signature logo in that small green space. The surrounding landscape and playground activities block the view, the truck noise and constant construction activity of the corporation yard.
Los Altos residents have extraordinarily little Open Space areas and parks. Why is this small green space deemed ripe “just for dogs" as a park, with little green, only crushed rock and proposed fencing around each tree to avoid "damage" from the animals? The current green space is functioning to provide a park for children, bikers, seniors, and dog walkers while protecting neighborhood noise levels and an unsightly maintenance yard? Why steal, divert and denude a green space that is successfully fulfilling its intended purpose one block away from a local school?
McKenzie Park is a gem and functioning as it was originally intended.
Sincerely,
Melinda Reed
Templeton, CA
Formerly Clinton Rd.
684
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Abby Bennett
To: Public Comment
Subject: Public Comment 2/8/2022 meeting Agenda Item #7 - Dog park Date: Tuesday, February 1, 2022 9:42:35 PM
Dear City Manager and Council Members,
I am writing in opposition to a dog park at McKenzie. Please reconsider your yes votes for this negative change to our park, neighborhood, and open space.
In the fall my 12 year old daughter was diagnosed with Aplastic Anemia and required a bone marrow transplant. (She was on the front page of the Town Crier recently) One of the only things she has been able to do as she heals is walk close to our home. McKenzie is around the corner from us and she has spent lots of time there. If the open space was to become a dog park it would be considered hazardous to her health. The change from grass to other surfaces and the pet waste would make that area inaccessible to her. When she saw that you might remove the trees she cried.
We need more open space for humans in Los Altos, not less. Especially now! We are struggling as a community to find safe places to connect with each other. Parks and green space have been those safe places for so many of us. Please don't take McKenzie from our community.
I have two dogs. Neither of which would I take to a dog park. In Los Altos people walk their dogs, they clean up their waste and dispose of it responsibly. We are a town of mostly good dog owners. A place where urine and feces saturate the ground is not a "park" it's a cesspit.
The urine concentration will become so high that if you don't remove the trees, they will eventually die. This is not what is good for pets or for people. Continue off leash hours, add some other venues and options. Keep McKenzie green with trees and grass and a healthy ecosystem.
I beg you to reconsider the dog park anywhere, not just McKenzie. Our families and dog owners need a greenspace not a wasteland.
Sincerely,
Abby Bennett
1235 S Springer Rd
Los Altos
685
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Dear Los Altos City Council Members,
We, as both dog owners and residents of Clinton Rd., are disappointed that the City Council voted to move forward with a fenced-in dog park at McKenzie Park West. For the reasons set forth below, we respectfully ask that you reconsider and find another area for a dog park.
A study of City owned properties must be done before any consideration of any public park land.
It is well-known and documented in the Los Altos Park Plan (excerpt included below), that Los Altos has the fewest park acreage ratio as compared to all surrounding cities, and even beyond. We need to preserve and create new park areas as possible, not destroy what little remains.
The Dog Park Will Have a Substantial Housing Impact
City Council appears to believe that installing a dog park on McKenzie Park West will have little impact on housing because the designated area is not near any homes and because there is a nearby small parking lot. Unfortunately, they are incorrect.
Based on years of living on Clinton Road (which abuts McKenzie Park East), we know the small parking lot fills quickly. Park users invariably park on Clinton Road (and other neighboring streets), despite a sign requesting park goers use the lot on Fremont. As a result, Clinton Road is packed with cars, often making it difficult for homeowners’ guests to find parking. Additionally many park directly in front of resident's mailboxes, resulting mail not being delivered.
The parking lot is also heavily used by the medical offices adjacent to the park, and removing spaces forces office workers onto the local streets for daily parking, creating even more impact.
Altos Oaks Drive is an unsuitable option for overflow parking. It is lined daily with medical office workers and patients. The parking lots themselves are private lots, and public parking is not available there.
Medical office workers currently park on nearby streets (examples being Clinton and Golden Way) due to limited parking in the lots.
A dog park will bring in additional people from all over the area, will only exacerbate the problem.
In short, there will be a substantial housing impact.
The Dog Park Will Remove Beautiful Green Space Open Space For All It appears that City Council believes that McKenzie Park West is an unused and fungible area and can easily be turned into a fenced-in dog park. Nothing could be further from the truth.
McKenzie Park is a gem of the city with its stunning green grass, tall canopy trees, and play structures. The Park includes both McKenzie Park East and McKenzie Park West, which are connected by a pathway. They are not two, but one connected park. Based upon our own experience, numerous people walk the pathway daily to enjoy the splendor of both areas.
McKenzie Park West is particularly beautiful with its approximately 20 mature trees, including redwoods and protected heritage oak trees, the Pax Nova sculpture, a climbing wall (which looks like a sculpture in its own right), and benches and picnic tables. Indeed the City of Los Altos’s own website showcases the beauty of McKenzie Park West with three photographs of the very area that it now seeks to destroy (see Attachment 1, website).
The tennis courts are heavily used, both by residents and the City uses as well for tennis lessons.
The benches and tables are used by workers from the nearby medical offices, and the Sub-Acute Center.
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The play structure, installed during the last park renovations at McKenzie, is one of the most unique climbing apparatus in the City, and enjoyed by many.
The dog park will put the many trees in jeopardy. There has been no arborist report done. While steps can be taken to “mitigate” issues, surely the trees lifespan will be significantly shortened.
A Dog-Park Would Require Significant Expenditure and Changes As noted, McKenzie Park West has approximately 20 mature trees, a play structure, a sculpture, picnic tables and benches. Turning the area into a dog park would require significant expenditures and changes. At the January 11, 2022, meeting, City Manager Gabriel Engeland said that it would cost an estimated $50,000 per park to fund the construction (see attachment 2, January 13, 2022, Town Crier article). But, we are not aware of any plans that outline the actual costs, let alone the maintenance of it.
In fact, in its May 2020 Report, the City of Los Altos Parks and Recreation Commission rejected turning McKenzie Park West into a dog-park because the costs would require “substantial capital investment.” (See attachment 3, Commission Report, p. 2). It further noted that “hardscape would need to be removed, some trees would need to be removed, drainage would need to be improved and fencing would need to be extensive to enclose the irregular area of this park.” (Id.). It concluded its Report stating that “the recent financial constraints on the City budget, as a direct result of the Corona virus, also gives reason to reject a fenced-in dog park at McKenzie Park.” (Id.).
Other Reasons the Commission Rejected McKenzie Park West Are Still Relevant The Commission rejected McKenzie Park West for a myriad of other reasons, all of which are still relevant despite the passage of time. The Commission noted that dog urine would impact trees and require additional watering. Certainly, in drought-ridden California, this requirement is not welcome. In addition, the Commission conceded that there are parking issues since the parking lot is “frequently full of vehicles.” (Id.). The Commission also noted that there is a caterpillar infestation issue that would be problematic to dogs. (Id., pp. 2-3). The commission further noted that a dog park would remove resident access to a play structure, benches and picnic tables. (Id., p. 3). Importantly, it stated that the “data from the workshops do not support having a fenced-in dog part at this site.” (Id.).
One of the goals as stated in the council priorities is the following noted under the Goal 2: LAND USE “Objective No. 3: Proactively endeavor to increase and protect the City’s parkland with an emphasis on the acquisition and preservation of green space or open space. " Fencing in this area goes directly against that goal as it will destroy that green and open space tha currently all enjoy.
The Hillview site at least establishes a new area and does not destroy any existing green and open space.
There is no demonstrable need for any fenced-in park anywhere in South Los Altos. In fact all of the prior surveys done have indicated there is not significant support for fenced-in dog parks.
Conclusion
In short, turning the beautiful McKenzie Park West into a fenced-in dog park would be a disservice to the residents of Los Altos.
Removing open areas used and enjoyed by all, for the exclusive use of a few, makes no sense.
Preserve what precious little open space we have for all Los Altans to enjoy.
Derek and Anne Pitcher
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From: Allen Hullinger < >
Sent: Friday, January 28, 2022 5:24 PM
To: City Council <[email protected]>; Public Comment <[email protected]> Subject: Mckenzie park dog park-opposition and concern if due process and voice of citizens To the members of Los Altos Council,
Please reconsider your decision to put a fenced-in dog park at McKenzie Park.
We do not have enough open space in Los Altos. At the direction of Council, the facilities department plans to take up almost all the green space in McKenzie Park West for a fenced-in dog park. This will inevitably impact the quality of life for local residents, medical offices, and users of the tennis and pickleball courts.
The attention to survival of the redwood trees and heritage oaks in the park is lacking. Do you have an arborist report we can read?
In May 2020, the subcommittee for the Parks and Recreation Commission ruled out McKenzie Park as a location for a dog park. A survey of residents including dog owners found very low interest in a fencedin dog park. There has been poor to no outreach on this topic in two years. Yet suddenly, everything has changed and the Council has proceeded without consultation.
As a Los Altos resident who loves dogs and has many kids that use the climbing wall and tennis courts, I urge you to keep our green space available for all creatures two-legged and four-legged.
Allen and Natasha Hullinger
948 Clinton Rd.
Los Altos, CA
p.s. all my six kids use the climbing wall each week.:) 689
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Richard White
To: Administration; Public Comment
Subject: Vast Majority of residents in McKenzie Park Neighborhoods do not want a fenced in dog park Date: Wednesday, February 2, 2022 7:59:26 PM
City Council Members and City Manager,
My wife and I canvassed the neighborhoods nearest to McKenzie Park west ( Manor Way, Altos Oaks Drive, and Golden Way) and simply asked our neighbors if they wanted to lose that McKenzie Park west green space to a fenced in dog park. I'll attach copies of the petition we circulated. A supermajority DO NOT want that green space converted to a dog park. Of the 41 people contacted, 35 signed the petition indicating they didn't want a dog park; two indicated they did want the park converted and another three were simply neutral. Among my Clinton Rd neighbors I know of no one who wants a dog park in McKenzie park west. So the statistics are roughly 90% opposed, 4% in favor, and another 6% neutral. I understand you have a petition from people in the North Los Altos area who are in favor of a dog park. The unbiased petitions attached clearly indicate that is not the attitude here in South Los Altos near McKenzie park. If you have contradictory input, in the spirit of transparency I would ask that you share it with us. If you don't then I believe it would be irresponsible to go ahead with plans for a dog park that most people in the area don't want. Build the park at Hillview and reassess the need for a park in South Los Altos.
Sincerely
Richard L. White
928 Clinton Rd
Los Altos, CA
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PUBLIC CORRESPONDENCE
The following is public correspondence received by the City Clerk’s Office after the posting of the original agenda. Individual contact information has been redacted for privacy. This may not be a comprehensive collection of the public correspondence, but staff makes its best effort to include all correspondence received to date.
To send correspondence to the City Council, on matters listed on the agenda please email [email protected]
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From: Julie Kim
To: Publ c Comment
Subject: Publ c Comment Agenda Item #7 2/8/2022
Date: Sunday, February 6, 2022 9:42:46 PM
Attachments: Screen Shot 2022-02-06 at 9.35.12 PM.png
Protect Open Green Space in Los Altos Parks (Responses) - Form Responses 1.pdf Dear Mr. Engeland and City Council,
Attached is a petition that was circulated to local neighbors of McKenzie Park. This is in addition to the signature submitted by Linda White. Please note that 50% are dog owners who are NOT in favor of a fenced-in dog park at McKenzie. Included on the petition are signatures of several of business owners along Altos Oaks. Thank you for your consideration.
Julie Kim
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From: Linda White
To: Public Comment
Subject: Dog Park at McKenzie Park
Date: Sunday, February 6, 2022 9:24:36 PM
Dear Los Altos City Council Members and City Manager,
I have lived on Clinton Rd. in Los Altos for 44 years. When I first moved in to this neighborhood my neighbor (an original homeowner on Clinton Rd.) shared with me how she and other neighbors helped to save the land at McKenzie Park from becoming a housing development. They felt that it was very important to have the land become a park that would greatly benefit the surrounding community.
Since that time in 1978 I have found myself in the position of trying to protect McKenzie Park from being taken away by the city's various governing bodies. I believe that this current attempt by the city is the forth or fifth time that the council is trying to "repurpose" McKenzie Park for the latest desires of a vocal group of residents. This time it is for the dogs of Los Altos.
Having been a dog owner myself I understand how an individual can truly care deeply for a pet. Certainly during these past challenging two years with Covid many have turned to having a dog for companionship. While I appreciate the desire to gather with other dog owners and have the dogs 'socialize" I can not condone making a dog's need to "socialize" a higher priority than a humans need for green space. Specifically the need of the residents of South Los Altos.
In Los Altos there is very little green space (parks) compared to our neighboring communities. It is inevitable that there will be growing residential/business development taking place in the near future in south Los Altos. It is imperative that the city council prepares the surrounding community of south Los Altos for this development and protect what little open green space that we have. It is the responsible decision to make that will assure the residents in south Los Altos that now and for the future the quality of life that is the pride of Los Altos will be made a priority by maintaining and protecting the valuable green space that is McKenzie Park in it entirety.
It has been shown (by letters and petitions) that there is no desire by the residents surrounding McKenzie Park for a fenced-in dog park. It has been demonstrated over the years that the majority of residents near McKenzie Park want to keep the park as the open green space it is today.
Sincerely,
Linda White
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From: Ravid Haselkorn
To: Gabriel Engeland
Cc: Public Comment; Peter Galatin
Subject: Re: Save McKenzie Park
Date: Sunday, February 6, 2022 8:27:57 PM
Thank you for letting me know. There were signs on the trees a few weeks ago indicating they would be cut down. I do not know their origin, though. I am very glad to hear that no trees will be removed.
Best,
Ravid and Peter
On Feb 6, 2022, at 8:24 PM, Gabriel Engeland <[email protected]> wrote:
Thank you for the email, Ravid. No trees are being removed for the development of the dog park at McKenzie Park.
Thanks,
Gabe
Gabriel Engeland
City Manager
City of Los Altos
(650) 947-2740 | www.losaltosca.gov
1 N. San Antonio Road | Los Altos, CA 94022
From: Ravid Haselkorn
Sent: Sunday, February 6, 2022 8:21:10 PM
To: Public Comment <[email protected]>
Cc: Peter Galatin
Subject: Save McKenzie Park
To LA City Council,
In the name of conservation, please DO NOT remove the trees at McKenzie Park to create a dog park. In an era of global warming, we need our trees more than ever to sustain our earth. They cool the atmosphere and counter air pollution, too. The dogs won’t be deprived, they won’t even care!
Save the trees!
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Best,
Ravid Haselkorn- Galatin and Peter Galatin
1101 Seena Ave (and dog owners!j
705
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From: M Squire
To: Public Comment
Subject: Public Comment Agenda Item#7 for Feb. 8
Date: Sunday, February 6, 2022 8:04:12 PM
Dear City Council Members,
We are writing because we see that at this Tuesday’s City Council meeting, Item #7 deals with the future fenced in dog parks in Los Altos. We understand that the current locations are Civic Center Soccer Field East and McKenzie Park West.
As we have stated in the past, we know that there is no perfect park in Los Altos to put a dog park.
If for some reason, the discussion turns to change where the dog parks should be located, we would again like to voice our opposition to a dog park at Heritage Oaks.
In the Staff report which was presented to the City Council on Jan. 11, 2022, two of the criteria used to determine a dog park location in Los Altos were having a buffer from residences and sufficient parking.
I would like the City Council to really listen to the neighbors who will be impacted by having a dog park across the street.
We live directly across from Heritage Oaks Park and have been dealing with unleashed barking dogs for years. Our home is only 50 feet from the park. This is not a sufficient buffer. If a fenced in dog park were to be established there, we are concerned that the barking will be uncontrollable and unbearable.
We would like to remind the Council that In November 2020. The neighbors of Heritage Oaks Park submitted a petition with 250 signatures opposing off- leash dogs at Heritage Oaks. Although the plan is now for fenced in parks, it does not change the fact that our homes are still only 50 feet away. We would be subjected to plenty of dogs and plenty of noise, along with more traffic and more cars using our driveways for three point turns, as they jockey for limited parking spaces.
We would like the City Council to seriously consider how the neighbors of Heritage Oaks Park would be impacted by having a dog park so close to their homes. Please do not make a change to establish a fenced in dog park at Heritage Oaks.
Thank you.
Respectfully,
Millie and John Squire
706
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Avalon Edwards
To: Public Comment
Subject: Public Comment 2/8/2022 Item #7 - Dog Parks
Date: Sunday, February 6, 2022 7:43:35 PM
To Whom It May Concern,
I'm a lifelong Los Altos resident who has enjoyed time in the beautiful green space at Mackenzie park for decades. I ask that the Council not allocate funding to changing part of Mackenzie into a dog park, and instead prioritize funding overdue park improvements like replacing aging play structures, ADA access, and other changes proposed in the parks plan that benefit all Los Altans.
Thank you,
Avalon Edwards
707
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Libby Karolczak
To: Public Comment
Subject: Owner of 3 Dogs who walks through McKenzie Park AGAINST Dog Park Date: Sunday, February 6, 2022 6:32:14 PM
I have 3 dogs and we walk through both parts of McKenzie Park almost every day. I have done so for the past 14 years or so as I live nearby on Manor Way. Although I did say 'yes' to a survey quite a few years ago when asked the general question of 'would you like a dog park in Los Altos', I would never have said that if I knew it would be at the expense of a wonderful, healthy and increasingly rare green oasis with incredible old-growth trees that is now potentially being irreparably damaged for that purpose. As one who walks through that park most days, I can tell you it is used by many different people of all ages for a wide variety of reasons. Unlike the spot for the dog park in North Los Altos, which was recently a gravel parking lot, the spot chosen in Southern Los Altos is an amazing, healthy piece of green space that before, during, and after the pandemic should give many people (local residents, preschool groups, bicycles cooling off under the Redwoods after riding on Foothill Expressway, people visiting the doctor's offices on Altos Oaks, folks working at the fire station or taking a break from the stress at the Sub Acute Care Home) a spot to grab a few moments of serenity under the redwoods. I have heard the argument that the Council is trying to be fair by putting a dog park in at both ends of Los Altos, but it is not equititable at all to do by destroying an irreplaceable, healthy and multi-use Green Space in South Los Altos to do so. Green space is SO limited and SO valuable. I have learned in researching this situation, that part of the Municipal Facility also located at McKenzie Park, temporarily houses automobiles that were in accidents and need to be stored / preserved as evidence. Is there really now way that these temporary items that are stored there could be stored elsewhere (many local offices have vacant space with more people working from home so is there none that could be retrofitted for this purpose?). Old growth redwoods and California Live Oaks in a healthy green space are MUCH harder to replicate than a spot to store wrecked cars for awhile. It truly doesn't feel like McKenzie Park is being treated like the amazing resource it is. In short, I would HATE to see it fenced in and the grass replaced with gravel, with those amazing trees covered in something (as of yet undetermined when I attended a meeting to find out details) that apparently might protect the trees. I was appalled to hear the town representatives I spoke with reference a few 'opinions' about what would best protect the trees and 'ideas' of what the substrate might be. Is it really the plan to through up a fence and figure all the rest out later, without any specific studies and environmentally responsible choices made? This is perhaps my most serious issue with the Southern Los Altos Dog Park Plan, namely is that there apparently really ISN'T much of a detailed plan at all - just put the fence up, and figure the rest out later. So, I strongly urge the Council to start with the one in North Los Altos and gain experience there in a location that was recently a parking lot, before destroying an irreplaceable Green Space in South Los Altos.
I work as a college counselor and speak with many local children who are VERY concerned about climate change and global warming and we should be creating MORE green spaces instead of destroying them when other locations could also be considered IF a newer survey found that two parks in Los Altos are really necessary. The original survey about possible dog parks in Los Altos was done long before the pandemic which made people understand how valuable are green spaces are. I am sure that a new survey would not have the same results.
In sum, I urge the Council to not make this permanent move without a great deal more RECENT data and publicity to those affected in the immediate area of McKenzie Park. Times have changed and although I love dogs and also enjoy dog parks, this location and the lack of an actual plan with environmental and other studies is sure to have many negative and unintended consequences. While North Los Altans may be embracing their proposed dog park with open arms, the vast majority here in South Los Altos are not. Thank you for your time in reading these comments.
Libby Karolczak
708
Agenda Item # 7.
Dear City Council Members,
We are writing to express our objection to the use of McKenzie Park West as a fenced-in dog park.
McKenzie Park West is a beautiful green space with mature trees that is enjoyed daily by many residents. It is a space where one can go to relax and renew. Putting a fence around this space and adding a ground cover suitable for dogs will, no doubt, create an eyesore and destroy its serenity and peacefulness that is so hard to come by. Our scant and diminishing open space must be preserved for all Los Altans to enjoy, especially given the growth in and around the City.
The City Council Priorities under Land Use states "implement policies ... to protect and increase its green space" and we urge you to keep your promise to protect this green space at McKenzie Park West. Fencing in this valuable green space does not nothing to support this priority.
In 2021 the City offered an area within the MSC for the use of the "Friends of the Library". That space within the MSC could be used for the dog park, and would not displace existing parkland.
Options like this must be further explored before taking away existing parkland.
Past PARC workshops which were more thorough and better noticed support the fact that McKenzie Park West is not a viable location for a fenced-in park. There has been no sufficient evidence to warrant any change to this conclusion.
Further studies must be done to first, establish a need for a fenced-in dog park in south Los Altos, and second, to include other city owned land and all other unimproved park areas before considering the re-purposing of existing and improved open space.
In regards to the proposed new Ordinance for the rules and regulations of the parks, there are several basic concerns that are not addressed and as such, the Ordinance must be corrected before anything can proceed.
The following items must be addressed in the Ordinance:
1) The number of dogs allowed in the park at given time. 2) Amount of time allowed in park.
3) The number of dogs allowed per handler.
4) Vaccination requirements for dogs, and proof of vaccination carried by owner/handler 5) Ages of dogs
6) License status of the dogs
Section B and C of the ordinance indicates that "reasonable" control of the dogs is necessary. This is wholly insufficient. Any animal must be under complete control of their owner/handler at all times – whether that is physical or verbal. Anything less jeopardizes the safety of other people and dogs within the park. For these reasons alone, the Ordinance as written must be rejected.
We are also concerned that there are no concrete plans for the dog park. There is no cost analysis for construction or on-going maintenance, yet the city manager informed us that a fence will go up around the area for the dog park immediately if the ordinance passes. To put up a fence without any plans is irresponsible.
We urge the Council to reject the fenced-in dog park at McKenzie Park West.
Keep your promise and show leadership in retaining the precious little open space remains in Los Altos for all Los Altans to enjoy and benefit.
709
Agenda Item # 7.
Respectfully,
Derek and Anne Pitcher
Dog owners for 30 years
Los Altos
710
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Julie Kim
To: Public Comment
Subject: Public Comment - 2/8/2022 Meeting Item #7 Dog park Date: Sunday, February 6, 2022 1:45:02 PM
Dear City Council,
I am writing to express my opposition to the elimination of open green space at McKenzie Park for a fenced-in dog park. Given the history of service of many council members on the Parks and Rec commission, I expect this council to have a very high threshold for deciding to eliminate open green space given the paucity in our city. This value is clearly stated in the 2021 Los Altos City Council priorities which includes to “proactively endeavor to increase and protect the City’s parkland with an emphasis on the acquisition and preservation of green space or open space.” Fencing in the front of McKenzie Park runs counter to this priority as it removes open green space and causes recreational displacement for those who walk, run, relax, and spend time here every day. This area has been referred to as “unused” and “unprogrammed’ and therefore expendable. The point of open space is to be “unprogrammed” and for all to enjoy.
The decision to eliminate green space could be understood if it was in the best interest or desire of the majority of Los Altans. However, the majority of Los Altans (53%) were NOT in favor of a fenced-in dog park according to the Parks and Recreation Commission’s 2020 Dog Park Subcommittee Report.
Council members have dismissed this input stating that “things have changed” since the pandemic making this 2-year-old report obsolete. It has been argued that the pandemic has led to an increase in dog ownership, but dog ownership is a poor proxy for the desire for a fenced-in dog park. Indeed, the pandemic has dramatically changed how many citizens live. We have seen an exponential increase in the numbers of people spending time outdoors enjoying our parks and open spaces. The mental health benefits of nature have been well documented. This should be factored into this decision to eliminate open green space – not just dog ownership.
I encourage the council to move forward with the Hillview dog park and to learn from that experience before spending money on a second dog park.
While the demand to install a fenced-in dog park at Hillview is relatively clear, this same demand has not been demonstrated in the central and southern parts of Los Altos. Take this opportunity to survey residents to determine if demand exists for a second location, to evaluate non-parkland options for this second site, and to learn what amenities citizens want at their parks. Maybe the focus should turn to the unaddressed needs of our parks including replacement of outdated play structures, ADA accessibility, and attention to drought damaged trees.Rather than feeling like South Los Altos is getting the ‘short end of the stick’ by delaying this decision, we will appreciate that our city council valued and listened to our input before rushing to take the irrevocable step of eliminating our limited open, green space. 711
Agenda Item # 7.
Sincerely,
Julie Kim
South Los Altos resident
712
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Henry More-New
To: Public Comment
Cc: Henry More-New
Subject: Public comment - 2/8/2022 meeting Item #7 Dog park Date: Saturday, February 5, 2022 5:41:59 PM
Dear Los Altos City Council,
I am against the proposal to fence off a part of McKenzie Park green space to create a dog park. I use that space regularly for strolls with my dog and don’t want to see it fenced.
Sincerely,
Henry & Adelle More
1436 Miramonte Avenue
Los Altos, CA 94024-5601
713
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Doug Edwards
To: Public Comment
Subject: PUBLIC COMMENT AGENDA ITEM #7 MEETING DATE 2/8/2022 Date: Friday, February 4, 2022 9:08:20 PM
I love dogs and enjoy being around them However, this proposed dog park is a bad idea, for reasons the New York Times explains more authoritatively than I can If you don't have time to read the whole article, let me sum it up for you:
Puppies under a year old are overwhelmed and potentially traumatized by exposure to other dogs who can be aggressive, which can lead to long-term fear of other animals
Unmonitored dog parks can lead to fights and bullying that can then become an accepted behavior for dogs that were previously gentle Large dogs can attack, injure and kill smaller dogs, and even playful nips can lead to life-threatening infections Exposure to large numbers of dogs spreads communicable diseases, even among vaccinated animals If you want to do your dog a favor, take it for a long walk or a dog safe beach Don't unleash it in the equivalent of a canine cage match Doug Edwards
https://nyti ms/3L2zqBX
The Dog Park Is Bad, Actually
Dog parks may seem like great additions to the community, but they’re rife with problems — for you, and for your dog. Here’s what to know before you go.
Feb 6, 2020
Every morning, rain, shine or snow, people stand around making conversation with strangers as their dogs chase, run and mingle. Ranging from elaborate fenced playgrounds and rolling fields to small inner-city runs, dog parks are among the fastest growing park amenities nationwide.
The Trust for Public Land found that there has been a 40 percent increase in the development of dog parks since 2009.
The first dog park in the United States was the Ohlone Dog Park, which was founded by Martha Scott Benedict and Doris Richards in 1979 in Berkeley, Calif. Since then, dog parks have become standard amenities in developing city and suburban neighborhoods across the country, but are they actually good for dogs? Surprisingly, canine behavior experts aren’t so sure.
According to a 2018 survey conducted by the National Recreation and Park Association (N.R.P.A.), 91 percent of Americans believe dog parks provide benefits to their communities. This was especially true among millennials and Gen Xers, who overwhelmingly recognized dog parks as beneficial amenities. The study found that the top two reasons responders cited for 714
Agenda Item # 7.
supporting dog parks were that 60 percent thought that they gave dogs a safe space to exercise and roam freely, and 48 percent felt that dog parks were important because they allowed dogs to socialize.
Especially for urban dogs that don’t have backyards to exercise in, dog parks can sound like a great idea. There is nothing natural, however, about dogs that aren’t familiar with one another to be put in large groups and expected to play together. Many of us just accept the assumption that dog parks are good places to socialize a dog, but that may not be the case.
The socialization myth
Nick Hof, a certified professional dog trainer and chair of The Association of Professional Dog Trainers, explained that in terms of canine behavior, the term “socialization” isn’t just dogs interacting or “socializing” with other dogs, but rather, “the process of exposing young puppies under 20 weeks to new experiences.”
“This helps them have more confidence and adapt to new situations,” Mr.
Hof said.
Though socialization is critical for the healthy development of puppies, the dog park is not where you want to bring your puppy to learn about appropriate interactions with other dogs, Mr. Hof added. “Dog parks are not a safe place to socialize a puppy under 6-12 months old,” he continued. “During our puppy’s early months, they are more sensitive to experiences, so a rambunctious greeter at the park may be enough to cause our puppy to be uncertain of all dogs,” Mr. Hof explained.
The goal for socializing young puppies is to ensure they have only positive interactions, and to avoid any overwhelming or frightening interactions.
Instead of taking puppies to a dog park for socialization, Mr. Hof encourages owners to attend puppy classes with their dog to meet ageappropriate playmates.
Socialization with older dogs is a bit more challenging, because in a behavioral sense, older dogs have already had all of their formative socialization experiences. Dog guardians generally mean well when they bring a shy dog to the dog park with the intention of giving that dog positive interactions with other dogs. Unfortunately, this can backfire; a dog who is nervous or uncomfortable is more likely to be easily overwhelmed in a park setting, which can lead to dog fights or a long-term fear of encountering other dogs. A park setting also allows dogs to pick up bad habits from one another, and is definitely not a place you want to bring a dog who is under-socialized.
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Agenda Item # 7.
Playground bullies
Although dogs are social animals and regularly engage in various forms of play, the artificial setup of a dog park can be challenging. Many people bring their dogs to the park to burn off excess energy, but these dogs often display over-aroused and rude behavior that can trigger issues between dogs. Dr. Heather B. Loenser, senior veterinary officer of the American Animal Hospital Association cautioned that “unfortunately, just because an owner thinks their dog plays well with others, doesn’t mean they always do.”
Having your dog in a dog park requires trusting that everyone in the park is monitoring their dog, and is a good judge about whether their dog should be in the park in the first place. That’s a lot of trust to put in a stranger.
Unlike doggy day cares or play groups, most dog parks are public spaces that are not screened or supervised by canine professionals.
This can be an issue with fights between dogs that can lead to dogs learning inappropriate behaviors from other dogs. “Bad experiences can also ripple outward and cause our dogs to have issues or concerns outside of the dog park as well,” Mr. Hof said, adding that dogs at dog parks might pick up bad habits such as being pushy when greeting or engaging in play with other dogs. On other hand, dogs that are overwhelmed by the boisterousness of others may become withdrawn, skittish and nervous when meeting other dogs in and out of the dog park.
Injuries
One of the biggest dangers of dog parks is that they often don’t have separate play enclosures for large and small dogs, or when they do, owners can choose to disregard those spaces. Even without meaning to, a large dog can easily cause serious injury or even kill a smaller dog.
From minor scuffles to serious incidents, injuries are common at dog parks.
Bite wounds are common, even from rough play. Even if the wound seems small, “seek veterinary care immediately,” Dr. Loenser advised.
Bites that occur in fights or during play often involve tearing under the skin, which can be complicated to heal, and may carry a greater risk of infection. Muscle strains and sprains from lunging and rough play are also common. “Anytime dogs quickly pivot on their back legs, they are also at risk for tearing the ligaments, specifically the cranial cruciate ligament in their knees,” Dr. Loenser said. These types of knee-and-ligament injuries often require expensive surgery and extensive healing and rehabilitation.
Diseases
Even clean and well maintained dog parks can pose health risks, in particular the spread of easily communicable diseases. One challenge of dog parks being unregulated public spaces is that while most post signs saying dogs should be vaccinated, no proof of vaccinations is actually required.
The American Animal Hospital Association advises owners who bring their pets to the park to have them vaccinated with the Bordetella vaccine, which prevents “kennel cough,” as well as distemper. You’ll also want to have your dog vaccinated against leptospirosis, as communal water bowls, puddles and other water features in dog parks can carry leptospira bacteria. All dogs 716
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should be vaccinated against rabies, and dogs that visit dog parks should be on flea and tick prevention as well as year-round heartworm prevention.
Dogs that visit dog parks should also be vaccinated against canine influenza (dog flu) that can be transmitted through the air.
Dr. Loenser cautioned that although “currently, the influenza vaccines available cover for the strains that are most commonly seen, if new strains are introduced or mutate, these vaccines might not provide crossprotection.” If that were to occur, dogs that visited dog parks and had contact with a large number of dogs that might or might not be fully vaccinated would be at risk of getting sick.
Body language
Most dog owners aren’t skilled at reading their dog’s body language beyond a wagging tail, so warning signs that your dog is uncomfortable, unhappy or angry are often ignored. This leads to minor and major dog fights.
Understanding canine body language is key to supporting your dog’s comfort and safety, and assessing if a playgroup at the dog park is going to be a good match.
“The dog park is not a place for you to let your dog run unsupervised while you socialize with other people,” Mr. Hof said. “Keep an eye on your dog and make sure that they are both being good and having a good time.” This means watching the actions and behaviors of your dog and the other dogs in the park. If things are getting too intense, that’s a good time to leave.
But what exactly should you be watching for? Dr. Loenser says that subtle signs of fear or aggression include “lip licking, yawning or panting when not hot.” Other signs of discomfort or a brewing issue include stiff bodies and erect tails. Keeping an eye out for these signs can give you the edge to intervene on your dog’s behalf before an interaction with another dog escalates.
Even dogs that appear to be playing well together may be at risk. “Healthy play between dogs should include small breaks or pauses,” Mr. Hof said. “If you are uncertain about if all dogs are happy, I recommend stopping the dog who may be too over-the-top and seeing what the other dog does. If the other dog tries to re-engage, it’s a good indicator that everything was okay.
If the other dog runs off though, a break was a good idea.” Any kind of behavior that involve one dog pinning another dog is also one to avoid. Barking, growling and other vocalization occasionally during play is normal, but frenzied barking is generally too much.
Dog park alternatives
On a good day, if the dog park you visit is large enough, it may physically tire out your dog. But the visit won’t actually provide your dog with the kind of enriching mental and emotional stimulation that dogs need. Dog parks, unfortunately, are often more about humans than they are about dogs.
As much as humans enjoy the chance to socialize with other like-minded animal lovers while our dogs play, it’s far safer and more fun for your dog to skip the dog park and spend that time engaging intentionally with you and their surroundings by going on walks, taking a training or general obedience class or even trying a new sport together. Ultimately you’re the 717
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only one who can determine if the risks outweigh the benefits of dog parks, but there is no shame in not surrendering your dog to what has become the quintessential urban dog experience: running with dozens of strangers in a small, smelly pen as people stand by, looking at their phones or gossiping.
Make the time you have with your dog meaningful and enriching; after all, your dog wants to spend time with you, too.
Sassafras Lowrey is a Certified Trick Dog Instructor and author of “Tricks In The City,” “Bedtime Stories For Rescue Dogs,” and he ac ivity book “Chew This Journal” for hcoming in Summer 2020. Follow Sassafras on Twitter @SassafrasLowrey and at SassafrasLowrey.com.
A version of this article appears in print on Feb. 10, 2020, Section B, Page 9 of the New York edition with the headline: Actually, Dog Parks Aren’t All That Great. Order Reprints | Today’s Paper | Subscribe
718
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Harry Mittelman
To: Public Comment
Subject: Against Dog Park at McKenzie Park
Date: Friday, February 4, 2022 4:30:32 PM
Mittelman Plastic Surgery is AGAINST having the dog park at Mckenzie Park Why ?
1. Too many parkgoers already use our parking lots on Altos Oaks Drive to access McKenzie Park. Adding a dog park will just increase the parking for our businesses. We are a medical facility and our patients need these spots closest to our office as most of our patients come to see us after their surgeries.
2. Our staff utilize the park for breaks and lunch. Having a dog park will take away from our access and all neighbor
access.
3. Not enough parking accommodations at McKenzie Park and the dog park will cause to much congestion on our parking lots and
streets.
Please reconsider this addition.
Thank you.
Dr. Harry Mittelman
719
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Doug Baney
To: Public Comment
Subject: Subject: Public comment - 2/8/2022 meeting Item #7 Dog park Date: Friday, February 4, 2022 12:34:52 PM
Subject: Public comment - 2/8/2022 meeting Item #7 Dog park Dear Los Altos City Council,
Leadership is about leading people to a place they want to be. Forcing constituents down a path they don’t want to go is not leadership. A survey conducted in 2020 and as well a recent door-todoor survey in Feb 2022 *of residents of south Los Altos in the neighborhood of McKenzie Park showed an overwhelming response against replacing open green space with fenced in space for dogs only. Prior to the survey, they were unaware of the new proposal to fence off the green space.
Eliminating accessible green space for South Los Altos residents goes against the core of Los Altos City’s stated policies. Many families in the South Los Altos are juggling work and kids, they don’t have the time to attend the council meetings to defend the green space, to lodge concerns about increased traffic and parking issues around their neighborhood, but their voices need to be heard too, and the 2022 door-to-door survey did just that. We face pressures from regional growth that negatively affect our neighborhoods, we need more access to green space, not less. We want Los Altos to continue to be a great place for the entire community where we maintain the things we love. So please consider a phased approach starting with the fenced in dog park at Hillview, learn from that experience, learn the true financial costs, and then work with south Los Altans to assess if they want a dog park, and if so where best to place it without removing green space. Please represent us, your constituents, and work with us to enhance our city as a wonderful place for us all.
Kind regards,
Doug and Basia Baney
Los Altos, February 4th, 2022
*Survey conducted by L & R White Jan/Feb 2022
720
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Smadar Agmon
To: Public Comment
Subject: Public Comment Agenda Item #7 for Feb. 8
Date: Friday, February 4, 2022 11:34:32 AM
Dear council,
I would like to let you know that we support your decision from January 11th, to establish a fenced dog park at the Fremont side of McKenzie Park.
This is a much better location than placing it at Heritage Oaks Park as it doesn't have neighbors across the street from it.
Thank you for your hard work!
Smadar Agmon
721
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Allen Hullinger
To: Public Comment
Subject: Public comment oppose dog parks--McKenzie Park Preservation Society for green open spaces Date: Friday, February 4, 2022 10:59:40 AM
An open letter to Los Altans,
Green open space should be protected from development.
Our City Council is poised to turn open green space in McKenzie Park into an eyesore killer of heritage trees.
February 8 could be our last chance to save the park. There has been consistent opposition to the construction of a fenced-in dog park that will remove open green space from use by all Los Altans.
Due process and public notice was a sham. February 8 meeting, an ordinance will be presented with instructions to implement. That ordinance is vague, does not set out a complete budget or design, and does not include many of the needed safety measures.
Please be aware of what's happening. Please speak up at the February 8 Council meeting in opposition to destroying green open space.
Dog lover Allen Hullinger
722
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Barbara Adey
To: Public Comment
Subject: Last Chance to Save McKenzie Park
Date: Friday, February 4, 2022 10:47:34 AM
An open letter to Los Altans,
Our City Council is poised to turn open green space in McKenzie Park into a litter box.
February 8 could be our last chance to save the park. We've heard that it has taken too long to get to a decision about dog parks in Los Altos. Not surprising, as there has been consistent opposition to the construction of a fenced-in dog park that will remove open green space from use by all Los Altans.
In a lapse of due process, public notice was sent out three weeks AFTER the decision was taken on McKenzie Park at the January 11 Council meeting. At the February 8 meeting, an ordinance will be presented with instructions to implement. That ordinance is vague, does not set out a complete budget, and does not include many of the needed safety measures.
If the ordinance passes on February 8, the City will immediately fence in the space by the tennis courts and start to make plans to lay down gravel or some composite material that can be hosed down as urine and feces accumulate in the fenced-in area. The chemicals and excess water will certainly harm the surrounding trees, contrary to assertions otherwise.
Please be aware of what's happening. Send a letter, or speak at the February 8 Council meeting.
Barbara Adey
723
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Susan Makler
To: Public Comment
Subject: Please - no fenced dog park at McKenzie Park
Date: Friday, February 4, 2022 9:06:46 AM
Dear Council Members,
We simply wish to add our voices in support of the important letters to you that have expressed opposition to the proposal to establish a fenced dog park at McKenzie Park West.
We lived on Clinton Road for 11 years until December 2020 and now live at Terraces in Los Altos “Northeast”. We had dogs the whole time and loved our walks and conversations with other dog owners - and non-dog owners - and walked all the way to the end of the walkway near Altos Oaks and Fremont at least twice a day, enjoying the area under discussion.
We sincerely hope you will reconsider your initial approval creating a fenced dog park that would, sadly, destroy this beautiful quiet green space so important to our neighborhood and all of Los Altos! Sincerely,
Susan and Todd Makler
Los Altos
Sent from my iPad
724
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Anne Kearns
To: Public Comment
Subject: Public comment - 2/8/2022 meeting Item #7 Dog park Date: Thursday, February 3, 2022 5:21:59 PM
Dear City Council and City Manager Engeland:
Recent meetings with several City Council members and the City Manager highlight the problems facing the proposed McKenzie Park West dog park. I urge you to reconsider going forward as planned. Moreover, the proposed Ordinance should not be adopted; it is too vague.
I would like to speak at the February 8, 2022 meeting.
Voting on McKenzie Park West at the January 11, 2022 Meeting Was Premature; the Dog Park Should Not Go Forward
On January 11, 2022, when City Manager Gabe Engeland, Facilities Director Manny Hernandez, and Director of Recreation and Community Services Director Donna Legge presented McKenzie Park West as a possible dog park, they did so without a plan. (See Jan. 11, 2022 City Council Meeting video). The following was reported at the meeting:
No community outreach was conducted. Rather, it would be done once a location was already picked. In other words, when it was too late.
They did not know the true cost of the dog park stating only that "it depends." They did not give a cost estimate for annual maintenance.
They did not have a plan for maintaining the trees to account for dog urine, other than fences.
They did not have a plan for caterpillars in the trees.
Yet despite this lack of data, the city moved forward voting 4-1 for a dog park at McKenzie Park West. Such was premature and a disservice to the community. As set forth below, there are numerous reasons why a dog park at McKenzie Park West is not reasonable at this time.
1. Green Space is a premium in Los Altos; more, not less, is needed. The City Council acknowledges that protecting Green Space in Los Altos is one of its highest priority items:
The City of Los Altos will implement policies that support a land-use mix and density that reflect the values of the Community, including seeking to protect and increase its green space, while ensuring compliance with any applicable laws and regulations.
(See city-council-priorities). Yet, with the proposed dog park, the City Council wants to replace green space with (most likely) gravel and a chain-link fence. In other words, an eyesore. McKenzie Park West should remain a calm haven for all to enjoy.
2. No hard data has been presented that a second dog park is needed, let alone, wanted. As stated, prior to the January 11 meeting there had been no community outreach.
This was apparently justified by "all the phone calls" from people who want a dog park. But the data is conflicting. During the 2020 workshops, it was expressly shown that residents did not want a fenced in dog park at McKenzie Park West. (See Subcommittee Report). That survey, however, was apparently cast aside, and no new survey was conducted. Without 725
Agenda Item # 7.
sufficient data, adopting a second dog park is premature and uninformed. Again, that's contrary to the City Council's own words: The City of Los Altos will continue to improve its community engagement process to ensure all community members are heard, informed, and included. (See city-council-priorities). More data must be gathered before moving forward.
3. A second dog park is financially irresponsible. In a recent City Council retreat, the City Manager outlined the financial difficulties of Los Altos. (See Jan. 26, 2022 Town Crier Article). In fact, the city is "dipping into budget reserves to cover costs" and is having difficulty maintaining its park structures. (Id.).
Yet, despite its financial woes, the City Council has budgeted $100,000 out of its Park in Lieu funds for two dog parks. (See Jan 11, 2022 City Council Meeting Minutes). Per the January 11, 2022 City Council meeting those funds are for the preliminary layout of the dog parks. (See Jan. 11, 2022 City Council Meeting video). City Council Member Lee Eng mentioned in the meeting that prior estimates were $200,000 for one dog park. (Id.). The City Manager said that the cost of the final design "depends" on the design and whether there are one or two parks, among other things. That means the City Council voted on a measure without knowing the true cost of this project. That is irresponsible. The City of Los Altos deserves better. Those funds could -- and should -- be better spent.
4. There is no reasonable plan for parking. While there is a small parking lot near McKenzie Park West, it fills quickly. Once word gets out of a new dog park, people will come from all over. Indeed, dog parks tend to have meet ups. Overflow parking will end up on adjacent streets including Altos Oaks Dr. (which is already full), Manor Way, and Clinton Road. There is no plan in place to enforce parking in the designated areas. This problem has not been taken into proper consideration.
Given the lack of data on whether a second dog park is needed, or wanted, it makes the most sense for the City to move forward with the Hillview dog park and learn from it before deciding on a second dog park. The City will better understand if a second dog park is needed, cost estimates, parking issues, what works and what doesn't work. It will also give City Council the necessary time for community outreach to make an informed decision -- one of its highest priorities. (See city-council-priorities).
The Proposed Ordinance Is Too Vague and Should Not Be Adopted as Written The proposed Ordinance is problematic and should not be adopted as written. (See Proposed Ordinance, pp. 602-608). First, the proposed Ordinance fails to identify the designated dog park areas, namely McKenzie Park West, and is therefore too vague. Second, it states that a fenced-in dog park may only be established after the following finding is made: "after a duly noticed public meeting the City Council has determined the designated park location." (Id., Section A.2(a)), This statement is awkward and unclear as to when that public meeting was or will be. As set forth above, the January 11, 2022 City Council meeting was not duly noticed.
City Manager Engeland admitted that there had not been any community outreach regarding McKenzie Park West prior to that January 11 meeting when the locations were apparently decided. (See Jan. 11, 2022 City Council Meeting video). Third, several key rules and regulations are missing from the proposed Ordinance. (Id., Section 3). For example, the proposed Ordinance does not require a limited number of dogs per person, that the dogs must 726
Agenda Item # 7.
be of a certain age, that the dog owners must be a certain age, that dogs must be vaccinated, and/or that dogs must be spayed or neutered. Other cities have made such requirements (See e.g., Mountain View Municipal Code, Section 5.61; Sunnyvale Municipal Code, Section
6.04.120). It is not enough to simply rely on the City Manager to enact such important rules.
Sincerely,
Anne Kearns
727
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Tom Johnson
To: Public Comment
Subject: Public comment - 2/8/2022 meeting Item #7 Dog park Date: Thursday, February 3, 2022 4:13:06 PM
Dear City Council and City Manager Engeland:
After meeting with various City Council members and the City Manager, it has become apparent that the decision to move forward with a permanent fenced-in dog park at McKenzie Park is ill-conceived and premature. I ask that you reconsider this decision for the following reasons:
Given the limited green space in Los Altos, protecting the existing green space is a top priority for the city. While one could try to argue that a dog park is green space, common sense says that a chain link fence surrounding some sort of animal-proof surface (most likely gravel) isn’t really green space.
There is no complete plan. Based on my discussions with Council members and the City Manager, no one seems to agree on exactly what is being built. It would be disheartening to wait until it’s already built to find out that it wasn’t what we were expecting or what we wanted.
There is no evidence to suggest that a permanent fenced-in dog park at McKenzie Park is what is wanted by the residents. While I understand that at various times over the years, the residents have expressed an interest in having dog facilities, that is completely different than saying they want green space removed and fences put up in McKenzie Park. In the 2020 workshops, it was shown that residents did not want a dog park at McKenzie. No actual community outreach to reach any other conclusion has been conducted since.
I ask that Council does the following before breaking ground on any fenced-in dog park that would replace existing green space in Los Altos:
Develop a plan that maps the specific areas to be converted and shows exactly what will be done. This would include location as well as materials used, methods for tree protection, and an overall image of what we could expect.
Develop a financial plan that details the actual building costs and the ongoing maintenance costs.
Conduct community outreach, similar to 2020 when the original dog parks were being considered, to get feedback on whether the residents think replacing green space at McKenzie Park with a fenced-in dog park is an important change for the city.
Move forward with the Hillview dog park. The city will be able to learn the true costs and benefits of a fenced-in dog park.
Thank you for your consideration.
Tom Johnson
26-year Los Altos resident
728
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Gillie Roth
To: Public Comment
Subject: Support of Dog Park at McKenzie Park West
Date: Monday, February 7, 2022 9:56:02 AM
Dear Council,
I am writing to express my support of the decisions to establish a fenced dog park at McKenzie Park West.
This location satisfies all of the most important criteria for a safe and functional park, with the least impact to the closest neighbors since they are not adjacent to the proposed dog park location.
All other possible locations would be much more disruptive to nearby residents in terms of noise, which is of the highest priority.
Thank you for your careful and thorough consideration for the dog park location.
Best,
Gillie
729
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Vicki Levy
To: Public Comment
Subject: PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEM 7- February 8, 2021 Date: Monday, February 7, 2022 11:48:49 AM
To whom it may concern,
I am writing to express my support for a fenced-in dog park at McKenzie Park. This beautiful tree-shaded area is a perfect location for a much-needed community resource. It has ample parking and would be in an under-utilized part of the park. It is in close proximity to rest rooms. It is also the perfect location because there are no homes adjacent to that portion of the park, so no impact on privacy. We have been a dog-owning family for over 30 years and have always kept our dogs leashed, not wanting to break the leash laws of Los Altos.
When walking through McKenzie park with a dog on leash where other dog owners have chosen in the past to allow their dogs off leash, we have experienced a few incidents of aggression from the unleashed dogs over the years. Having a designated fenced-in dog park is an option that provides greater safety for the public. This is a decision that has been a long time in the making. Please see it through and vote "yes" to support the off-leash dog park at McKenzie!
Thank you,
Victoria Levy, Los Altos, CA
730
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Nina Srinath
To: Public Comment
Subject: Public comment on agenda item 7 Feb 8 2021
Date: Monday, February 7, 2022 11:56:28 AM
I support the dog parks proposal at McKenzie as well as the Los Altos soccer field. Please make them possible as soon as possible.
Please consider increasing the size of the soccer field area to be large enough for dogs to actually run and exercise and use it. I am afraid that the proposed area is just something to satisfy the decision to have a 'dog park' and is too small an area and will just become a dusty unused dog run instead of something the community and their pets can use and enjoy.
Thank you
Nina Srinath
731
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Daryl Odnert
To: Public Comment
Subject: Public Comment - Agenda Item 7 - February 8, 2021 Date: Monday, February 7, 2022 12:00:31 PM
To the Members of the Los Altos City Council,
Although I live much closer to the Hillview center, I would like to express my support for the off-leash dog zone at McKenzie Park.
In my opinion, the concerns raised by those opposed to the dog zone are unlikely to happen in the real world. But if they do turn out to be real problems, it is not as if the removal of the dog zone in the future would cost the City huge amounts of money. I believe a more likely scenario is that the dog zone becomes another valuable "asset" for recreation in our community.
Sincerely,
Daryl Odnert
101 Catalina Ct, Los Altos, CA 94022
732
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Lara McGurk
To: Public Comment
Subject: PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEM 7- February 8, 2021 Date: Monday, February 7, 2022 12:17:44 PM
I support off-leash at McKenzie! We have no off leash parks in Los Altos! Let's change that! Lara
Lara McGurk
733
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Dave Orr
To: Public Comment
Subject: PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEM 7- February 8, 2021 Date: Monday, February 7, 2022 12:20:44 PM
Attachments: image.png
I just discovered McKenzie has off-leash dog activities, and have gone 5 times in the past two weeks. It's fabulous! Lots of dogs and owners, all are friendly and welcoming. Great to have a space where dogs can run at full speed. Also great to have a community to be part of.
Please do keep it, I expect to go 2-3 times/week basically forever.
Loki on the left with a dog friend at the park
Cheers,
Dave
734
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Isabelle Senesi
To: Public Comment
Date: Monday, February 7, 2022 12:23:21 PM
I support off leash at McKenzie Park los altos
from Zabou's iPhone
735
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Stacy Stern
To: Public Comment
Subject: I support off-leash at McKenzie
Date: Monday, February 7, 2022 12:27:45 PM
Greetings,
A quick note to let you know that I support off-leash at McKenzie. Convenient dog parks are a great benefit to the community.
Thank You!
Stacy Stern
736
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Diane Ramelli
To: Public Comment
Subject: McKenzie Off-Leash Support
Date: Monday, February 7, 2022 12:39:08 PM
Hello
I am writing to offer my plea to add a Dog Park at McKenzie park. I walk my two puppies many times during the week and enjoy the park, however I would enjoy it better if my two puppies were able to be off-leash to roam the grounds and more importantly socialize with other dogs.
I also enjoy the time to meet other local pet owners, many who I now know by name to socialize and share pet experiences.
I am a work-from-home dog owner and would not want to see limited hours as my work schedule does not allow for fixed walking times but I take breaks during my workday when permitted to take them for a walk.
Thank you for your support of a Los Altos Dog Park.
Diane Ramelli
737
Agenda Item # 7.
From: James Sweeney
To: Public Comment
Subject: Dog parks support
Date: Monday, February 7, 2022 12:47:30 PM
I was pleased the council voted for the two permanent dog parks in the last meeting and will be watching the meeting tomorrow to see the Hillview site approved, and quickly implemented in the area behind the soccer back stop next to the Community Center parking lot. An area that should be able to be quickly established with a fence and no time restrictions for use, convenient to bathrooms, public parking, water, and relatively distant from housing, but within walking distance of many dog owners in need of a free play area for their lonely dogs.
The need for a South Los Altos dog play area is crucial to the success of both dog parks. Only having one official park will create crowding for the small area that the city is planning on offering to North Los Altos residents next to the soccer field. I think the council should follow through on the site already approved and not fold to concerns from anti-dog park residents. The Mc Kenzie Park area was already approved by the council in the last meeting. Stick to your guns and provide each part of the city with at least some options for off leash play and both human and dog socialization and complete both parks. The city needs them, token as they are and perhaps additional legal areas as well.
Jim Sweeney and Cooper (a maltipoo)
Sent from Mail for Windows
738
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Mia Carlsson
To: Public Comment
Subject: Public comment - agenda item 7 February 8
Date: Monday, February 7, 2022 1:13:32 PM
Honorable city council,
Thank you for your time and effort to make this historical change happen! I support the off leash initiative at McKenzie.
I am of the belief that multiple options are needed as Los Altos is a dog friendly town & we have lots of dogs.
This will take off the pressure of one spot for neighbors and dogs & great fantastic if one can walk instead of taking the car.
This will build a stronger community and the town will be friendlier.
I also hope that it will be decided to go ahead with the off leash area at Hillview soccer field as planned and this can be open for use shortly.
Kind regards,
Mia Carlsson
739
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Manisha Arora
To: Public Comment
Subject: Subject line: PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEM 7- February 8, 2021 Date: Monday, February 7, 2022 1:23:43 PM
I fully support off-leash at McKenzie!
Regards,
Manisha
740
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Bette H
To: Public Comment
Subject: PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEM 7- February 8, 2021 Date: Monday, February 7, 2022 1:42:23 PM
Honorable Mayor and City Council,
I sincerely appreciate the January 11th preliminary approval of permanent dog parks on the Hillview campus and at McKenzie Park West. I have mostly stayed clear of sharing an opinion on parks other than Hillview, but the stark reality is we need to share both the love and the impacts that the permanent dog parks will bring for a successful implementation in either place.
I sympathize with the nearby neighbors who are afraid of making this change, but the underlying structural changes necessitating fenced dog parks have already occurred. Los Altos has a huge number of new dogs and puppies. Our park lands have shrunk due to selling parcels for residential and other use. Dogs running freely on unfenced property pose a threat to passerbys afraid of dogs, as well as to the off-leash dogs themselves. Run away dogs could potentially cause traffic accidents on nearby roads or parking lots. (I personally have witnessed near misses on several occasions.) Yes, we dog owners need to be able to control our dogs, yet recall training is a process that takes some time.
Off-leash exercise and socialization is a basic need for dogs. While some of us can take our dogs to surrounding cities, a) this is unfair to our neighboring cities, and b) this is unfair to those of us who simply don't have the time and/or resources to take their dogs to other cities, such as parents of young children, people with medical issues, people whose work schedules don't permit them to take time away for dogs; and c) dogs are most comfortable when they see familiar faces in the crowd, so constantly introducing our dogs to new dogs (including potentially vicious dogs - because yes this happens around here) is very stressful on both dog owners and our dogs.
I'm writing quickly due to the upcoming deadline. I will be in touch with more.
Best regards,
Bette Houtchens
741
Agenda Item # 7.
From: JERRY BROWN
To: Public Comment
Subject: Dog park
Date: Monday, February 7, 2022 1:47:44 PM
Please vote Yes for the dog park. Los Altos needs a place where dogs can legally run and play off leash.
Jerry L. Brown
742
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Maxim Kelman
To: Public Comment
Subject: PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEM 7- February 8, 2021 Date: Monday, February 7, 2022 1:48:27 PM
Aa a resident of the country club area and a dog owner, I fully support off-leash at McKenzie area.
Sincerely,
Max Kelman
1557 Plateau Ave, Los Altos, CA 94024
743
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Svetlana Kelman
Sent: Monday, February 7, 2022 12:56 PM
To: Public Comment <[email protected]>
Subject: [SPAM] PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEM 7- February 8, 2021 Hello,
I'm writing this email in strong support of implementing an off-leash dog area at McKenzie!!! There is not a single off-leash area in Los Altos and I often travel with my dog to Mountain View or Sunnyvale to allow my dog and myself to socialize. I would love to have an opportunity to connect with other dog owners in Los Altos without having to travel outside of Los Altos.
I also believe that the suggested McKenzie area is perfectly suited for a dog park -- it's far enough from the housing and won't create extra traffic. In fact, I already take our dog for walks in that area and really enjoy it.
Thank you in advance for considering and approving this option! Svetlana Kelman
1557 Plateau Ave, Los Altos, CA 94024
744
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Wang, Julie
To: Public Comment
Subject: PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEM 7- February 8, 2021 Date: Monday, February 7, 2022 1:55:18 PM
I support off-leash at McKenzie!
745
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Suresh Shanmugham
To: Public Comment
Subject: PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEM 7- February 8, 2021 Date: Monday, February 7, 2022 1:56:42 PM
An off-lease area at McKenzie Park is a a much-needed option for dog owners in the area.
There are limited options in Los Altos dog owners. We should not need to go Mountain View or neighboring areas to enjoy play time with our dogs and pet parents. It has been long enough. We need a solution and this is something City Council supports.
Suresh Shanmugham
1089 Eastwood Court
Los Altos
746
Agenda Item # 7.
PUBLIC CORRESPONDENCE
The following is public correspondence received by the City Clerk’s Office after the posting of the original agenda. Individual contact information has been redacted for privacy. This may not be a comprehensive collection of the public correspondence, but staff makes its best effort to include all correspondence received to date.
To send correspondence to the City Council, on matters listed on the agenda please email [email protected]
747
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Dee Miller
To: Public Comment
Subject: DOG PARK
Date: Monday, February 7, 2022 2:41:18 PM
I writing to go on record as being totally in favor of the proposal to put a fenced dog park at the Mackenzie Park location. The addition of a dog park here in Los Altos has been a long time goal for many of us long time residents and I am pleased the council is moving forward ( she said hopefully!) . I have heard many reasons in favor of the park and have also heard some of the opposition arguments. Some made no sense: drivers from afar bolting down from nearby freeways to let their pets out - there are far larger and well-known parks in Sunnyvvale, Mtn View and Palo to name just a few. As to the loss of the play structure adjacent to Fremont Ave and the tennis courts, that just bears no validity. Having lived in Los Altos near Loyola Corners for over 50 years and raised children here, I drive by there almost daily to go downtown or to andronicos, or the medical offices, and there are almost (and I say almost in that never is hard to prove) never any children using that space. I didn’t use that space for my kids, its much too close to a roadway with way too few structures for safe and fun play. Much better to head back to the larger and safer play structures and places to run in the back of the park.
It would be an excellent location, not
adjacent to houses.
I do fervently urge the council to take this opportunity to serve the needs of many of the Los Altos residents with dogs.
Please contact me with any questions. Am not including an address as this looks like public comment, but will happily supply it to verify my residency.
Dee Miller
748
Agenda Item # 7.
From: becky sarabia
To: Public Comment
Subject: Public Comments 2/8/2022 Meeting Item #7 Dog Parks Date: Monday, February 7, 2022 6:16:23 PM
Please do not go forward with the fenced-in dog park at McKenzie. I am a dog owner, and I walk through the park every day, enjoying the serenity of the park as do all the people who walk with me. This park
(both sides) is well used by older folks who stroll through it, by the nursing home folks near by, and by those who use it for some sports, picnics, and Tai Chi during warmer weather. This park is serene and beautiful. And green space in Los ALtos is so scarce. It would be a travesty to see any part of McKenzie repurposed for a fenced-in dog park! You would be taking away precious green space from those of us who use the park. Based on our canvasing of our neighborhoods, there is overwhelming consensus that Mckenzie should not have a fenced-in dog park.
It would make more sense to wait until Hillview has been implemented before committing to a second location. There should also be some evidence that South Los Altos residents are in favor of repurposing McKenzie Park. Yes, some may have been in favor of a fenced-in dog park, but the people I spoke with were not told that the fenced-in dog park was going to mean removing green space from McKenzie. I am not at all opposed to a fenced-in dog park somewhere. We can work with council on a better location that works for both the community and the protection of green space.
In my opinion, we could still try off-leash hours in several parks instead of destroying the natural beauty of the west side of McKenzie. I have proposed that part of the maintenance yard be repurposed for a dog park as a possible site. I do not see this as a bona fide hardship for the maintenance department. Rather, it would take some brainstorming and a little extra work to find a place for the 2-10 vehicles held there for court evidence.
I once again urge council to stop any action at this time that would repurpose McKenzie Park.
Becky Sarabia
1427 Miramonte Ave
Los Altos
749
Agenda Item # 7.
From: becky sarabia
To: Public Comment
Subject: Public Comments 2/8/2022 Meeting Item #7 Dog Parks Date: Monday, February 7, 2022 6:24:57 PM
Please do not go forward with the fenced-in dog park at McKenzie. I am a dog owner, and I walk through the park every day, enjoying the serenity of the park as do all the people who walk with me. This park
(both sides) is well used by older folks who stroll through it, by the nursing home folks near by, and by those who use it for some sports, picnics, and Tai Chi during warmer weather. This park is serene and beautiful. And green space in Los ALtos is scarce. It would be a travesty to see any part of McKenzie repurposed for a fenced-in dog park! You would be taking away precious green space from those of us who use the park. Based on our canvasing of our neighborhoods, there is overwhelming consensus that Mckenzie should not have a fenced-in dog park. Yes, originally, some may have been in favor of a fenced-in dog park, but the people I spoke with were not told that the fenced-in dog park was going to mean removing green space from McKenzie.
I am not at all opposed to a fenced-in dog park somewhere. It would make more sense to wait until Hillview has been implemented before committing to a second location. There should be some evidence that South Los Altos residents are in favor of repurposing McKenzie. We can work with council on a better location that works for both the community and the protection of green space.
In my opinion, we could still try off-leash hours in several parks instead of destroying the natural beauty of the west side of McKenzie. I have proposed that part of the maintenance yard be repurposed for a dog park as a possible site. I do not see this as a bona fide hardship for the maintenance department. Rather, it would take some brainstorming and a little extra work to find a place for the 2-10 vehicles held there for court evidence.
I once again urge council to stop any action at this time that would repurpose McKenzie Park.
Becky Sarabia
1427 Miramonte Ave
Los Altos
750
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Yoav Agmon
To: Public Comment
Subject: Public Comment Agenda Item #7 (unleashed dog parks) Date: Monday, February 7, 2022 7:10:18 PM
Dear Los Altos council members,
It appears as this item is not settled and continues to generate a lot of emotions and grievances.
Unfortunately, some previously proposed locations will cause residents unacceptable damage such as in Heritage Oaks area as there are homes less than 50 feets away, thus for a good reason they were removed from the proposal and are no longer included.
The last 2 places that were finally selected are deemed more appropriate, at least for that reason.
However, maybe a much better option is to engage with the county and collaborate on bigger and better areas such as Rancho San Antonio park. That area contains much less restricted spaces that will provide a much healthier and natural environment for dogs to happily run and play.
With respect,
Yoav Agmon
McKenzie Ave.
Los Altos
751
Agenda Item # 7.
From: joanne marent
To: Public Comment; joanne marent
Subject: Please reconsider the need for TWO dog parks in Los Altos Date: Monday, February 7, 2022 8:06:03 PM
Hello,
I am a Los Altos resident (17 years) and a long time dog owner, and I would implore the City Council to reconsider the idea of building TWO Dog Parks in Los Altos. -- Not all dog owners (or dogs) are interested in dog parks. I have never, and will never, take my dog to a dog park, and that is quite likely the feeling of a majority of dog owners. Dog parks are not safe for smaller or older and many breeds don't do well socializing with other dogs. Don't let the quantity of dogs in Los Altos suggest that most dog owners are interested in dog parks
-- A dog park is necessary in large, dense cities where dogs cannot be safely exercised. In Los Altos we have safe, pedestrian friendly streets and parks so dog owners can properly and easily walk, run and exercise their pets -- Our city is small - 6.5 square miles. The consideration by the City Council to build TWO dog parks in this limited geographical area is fiscally irresponsible (at $50,000/park) and totally unnecessary for a city this size. If you must build a dog park, start with one at Hillview (where the majority of residents noted was first choice) and then gather data to determine if a second location is warranted. -- Of the two sites under consideration, the Hillview site makes the most sense due to its size, central location, flat, open, and sunny space. Many pet owners can walk to Hillview.
-- McKenzie Park site is small and bordered by Foothill Expressway. Most users would access by car. The removal of grass will endanger the health of the many mature redwoods and heritage oaks. Furthermore, it will reduce usable open park space currently enjoyed by all Los Altos residents - not just dog owners interested dog parks.
Please be prudent and fiscally responsible with this decision and start with the construction of ONE Dog Park at a time in Los Altos.
Thank you,
Joanne Marent
If some Los Altos residents are interested in a dog park, start by constructing one at Hillview and measure demand. Hillview location is better suited -- more centrally located
-- sunny and wide open
752
Agenda Item # 7.
-- won't threaten or damage heritage trees
--plenty of parking.
753
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Caroline Chen
To: Public Comment
Subject: PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEM 7- February 8, 2021 Date: Tuesday, February 8, 2022 10:30:13 AM
To whom it may concern,
I now drive to Mountain View or Redwood City for their off-leash parks. My dog Levi needs off-leash time to exercise and stay healthy. Please please make these two dog parks happen. Thank you!! Chiiluh Chen
64 Chester Cir
Los Altos
754
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Victoria Hambly
Sent: Monday, February 7, 2022 7:39 PM
To: Public Comment <[email protected]>
Subject: [SPAM] PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEM 7, Feb. 8, 2022
I strongly support an off-leash dog park at McKenzie Park. This dog park should pose no hardship to any nearby residents, or to the greater portion of McKenzie Park itself. It is proposed to be in a small corner of McKenzie, by the tennis courts, and does not interfere in any way with children and others who use the main part of McKenzie Park. There is ample parking without impeding any of the nearby residents.
A city like Los Altos should have a genuine fenced in dog park. There are plenty of parks and open spaces in Los Altos. Without a dedicated dog park, dog owners are forced to use public spaces not intended for dogs - places such as baseball and soccer fields. Year round, or especially on any late afternoon or summer evening many dog owners can be seen with their dogs, on school grounds or parks, breaking the law, but enjoying socializing with each other while their dogs socialize with other dogs. There is no reason that there can’t be a dedicated and legal dog park in an affluent and friendly community such as Los Altos. Dogs are wonderful companions and a great addition to our community. They need space to run and the opportunity to socialize with other dogs.
I strongly support a dedicated dog park, actually both the Hillview and McKenzie proposed parks.
Sincerely,
Victoria Hambly
23980 Spalding Ave.
Los Altos, CA 94024
755
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Katie Wurtz
To: Public Comment
Subject: PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEM 7- February 8, 2021 Date: Tuesday, February 8, 2022 11:06:23 AM
Dear City Council Members,
I'm writing in support of the proposed enclosed dog park @ McKinsey Park. As a dog owner who lives in South Los Altos, I heartily recommend it as a way to give both dog owners and non-dog owners a place where dogs can play off-leash without the possibility of the dogs running over to/bothering non dog owners (or anyone else walking by!) I see the proposed location @ McKinsey Park as ideal, especially because it's currently an area that is not wellused (I rarely see people over there when I drive by,) and it's not right near any homes, which is ideal.
The dog park is a way for not only dogs to get exercise and play/socialization they need to be safe dogs, but it's also a way to strengthen our community in Los Altos. Please support this important effort -thank you! Best,
-Katie Wurtz
786 Mora Drive
Los Altos, CA94024
756
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Svetlana Kelman
To: Public Comment
Subject: PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEM 7- February 8, 2021 Date: Monday, February 7, 2022 12:56:48 PM
Hello,
I'm writing this email in strong support of implementing an off-leash dog area at McKenzie!!!
There is not a single off-leash area in Los Altos and I often travel with my dog to Mountain View or Sunnyvale to allow my dog and myself to socialize. I would love to have an opportunity to connect with other dog owners in Los Altos without having to travel outside of Los Altos.
I also believe that the suggested McKenzie area is perfectly suited for a dog park -- it's far enough from the housing and won't create extra traffic. In fact, I already take our dog for walks in that area and really enjoy it.
Thank you in advance for considering and approving this option! Svetlana Kelman
1557 Plateau Ave, Los Altos, CA 94024
757
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Victoria Hambly
To: Public Comment
Subject: PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEM 7, Feb. 8, 2022
Date: Monday, February 7, 2022 7:39:38 PM
I strongly support an off-leash dog park at McKenzie Park. This dog park should pose no hardship to any nearby residents, or to the greater portion of McKenzie Park itself. It is proposed to be in a small corner of McKenzie, by the tennis courts, and does not interfere in any way with children and others who use the main part of McKenzie Park. There is ample parking without impeding any of the nearby residents.
A city like Los Altos should have a genuine fenced in dog park. There are plenty of parks and open spaces in Los Altos. Without a dedicated dog park, dog owners are forced to use public spaces not intended for dogs - places such as baseball and soccer fields. Year round, or especially on any late afternoon or summer evening many dog owners can be seen with their dogs, on school grounds or parks, breaking the law, but enjoying socializing with each other while their dogs socialize with other dogs. There is no reason that there can’t be a dedicated and legal dog park in an affluent and friendly community such as Los Altos. Dogs are wonderful companions and a great addition to our community. They need space to run and the opportunity to socialize with other dogs.
I strongly support a dedicated dog park, actually both the Hillview and McKenzie proposed parks.
Sincerely,
Victoria Hambly
23980 Spalding Ave.
Los Altos, CA 94024
758
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Willem De Lange
To: Public Comment
Subject: Dog Parks in Los Altos
Date: Tuesday, February 8, 2022 5:19:43 PM
> Hello dear City Council members,
>
> Just want to express my opposition to getting fenced in dog parks in Los Altos making the parks smaller and unappealing for people who like Margriet and I, Willem, like to go for a stroll in our neighborhood parks. Please consider putting a pool for people on the community center grounds. Our pool was taken out some 25 years ago at Covington school and a new site on Rosita was rejected because of traffic concerns. Dog parks win over health benefits for people??
> Would you Please align your views focusing on needs for the general (aging) population! >
> Willem and Margriet De Lange
> 951 Castilleja Ct
> Los Altos, CA 94024
>
>
> Sent from my iPhone
759
Agenda Item # 7.
From: steve schaper
To: Public Comment
Subject: Dog Park
Date: Tuesday, February 8, 2022 5:44:18 PM
As a former dog owner I appreciate the concept of a dog park as long as it is a non fenced area. I support having limited, specified "off-leash hours" for dogs at most or all of the neighborhood parks, as an alternative to fenced in dog parks. I am opposed to any modifications at MacKenzie Park. It is an oasis bordered on three sides with residential and commercial properties. Parking is shared with tennis court and is not adjacent to the park. It is a serene place where humans and dogs have comfortably coexisted for the many years that i have lived in Los Altos.. No need to change. Also spending a $100,000 plus monthly maintance fees is a waste of money. If you really want to take care of the under-represented (dogs and teenagers) build a skate park. Seriously.
Steve Schaper
760
Agenda Item # 7.
From: Hillview Dog Park Preservation Society
To: Public Comment
Subject: PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEM 7- February 8, 2022 Date: Tuesday, February 8, 2022 7:36:13 PM
Attachments: McKenzie Dog Park (Responses).pdf
Please see the attached PDF with 37 electronic signatures expressing support for a fenced dogpark at McKenzie Park West. We were able to secure these signatures in a very short amount of time.
We appreciate your preliminary approval of the dog parks at Hillview and at McKenzie. We have mostly stayed clear of sharing an opinion on parks other than Hillview, but the stark reality is we need to share both the love and the impacts that the permanent dog parks will bring for a successful implementation in either place.
While we sympathize with the nearby neighbors who are afraid of making these important changes, the underlying changes necessitating fenced dog parks have already occurred. Los Altos has a huge number of new dogs and puppies. Our park lands have shrunk due to selling parcels for residential and other use. Dogs running freely on unfenced property pose a threat to passerbys afraid of dogs, as well as to the off-leash dogs themselves. Run away dogs could potentially cause traffic accidents on nearby roads or our parking lots. Yes, we dog owners need to be able to control our dogs, yet recall training is a process that can take some time.
Off-leash exercise and socialization is a basic need for most dogs. A well exercised, well socialized dog is a much better dog citizen of our community. While some dog owners can take their dogs to dog parks in surrounding cities, a) this is unfair to our neighboring cities, and b) this is unfair to those of us who simply don't have the time and/or resources to take their dogs to other cities, such as parents of young children; people whose work schedules don't permit them to take time away for dogs; and people with medical issues; and c) dogs are most comfortable when they see familiar faces in the crowd, so constantly introducing them to new dogs (including potentially vicious dogs - because yes this happens around here) is very stressful on both the owners and our dogs.
Please stay the course on both Hillview and McKenzie!
Best regards,
Bette Houtchens
--
Bette Houtchens
Steering Committee Member
The Hillview Dog Park Preservation Society
761
Agenda Item # 7.
762
Agenda Item # 7.
763
Agenda Item # 7.
City of Los Altos 2022 Tentative Council Agenda Calendar February 3, 2022
All items and dates are tentative and subject to change unless a specific date has been noticed for a legally required Public Hearing. Items may be added or removed from the shown date at any time and for any reason prior to the publication of the agenda eight days prior to the next Council meeting.
Date Agenda Item
(Date identified by Council)
Agenda Section
(Consent,
Discussion Item -
note in red if
Public Hearing)
Dept/
Date of
request
to add.
February 22, 2022 STUDY SESSION – Police Facility Subcommittee
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
March to be YOUTH ARTS MONTH - Proclamation Special Item SB 1383 Local Assistance Grant
Alta Housing Annual Service Report Info Only LS
1.19.202
2 Council Legislative Subcommittee Discussion – Ad Hoc vs. Standing memo (JH)
Discussion CC
1.25.202
2 HRI Process & Application CM 1-31-
22 the American Legion Hall (T)
Second Reading of Dog Park Ordinance (Tentative)
Density Bonus PH
March 1 , 2022 SPECIAL MEETING -- COMMISSION INTERVIEWS March 8, 2021 REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
Police Facility Subcommittee Study Session Follow up
764
Agenda Item # 8.
City of Los Altos Tentative Council Agenda Calendar
February 3, 2022
All items and dates are tentative and subject to change unless a specific date has been noticed for a legally required Public Hearing. Items may be added or removed from the shown date at any time and for any reason prior to the publication of the agenda eight days prior to the next Council meeting.
Date Agenda Item
(Date identified by Council)
Agenda Section
(Consent,
Discussion Item -
note in red if
Public Hearing)
Dept.
Investment Report – Quarterly
Expansion of Scope of Housing Element Outreach Subcommittee Discussion CC
1.25.202
2 Tract Map 10552 - 4848 El Camino Real
Emergency Dec.
Financial System Purchase
Independent Intake Official (Stephanie Atigh) report CC PD March 22, 2022 STUDY SESSION - Complete Streets Master Plan
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
Policy of use of City Land by Non-Profits at Civic Center Housing Element Annual Progress Report CC
Tree Policy
April 12, 2022 REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
Mid Year Budget Report
765
Agenda Item # 8.
City of Los Altos Tentative Council Agenda Calendar
February 3, 2022
All items and dates are tentative and subject to change unless a specific date has been noticed for a legally required Public Hearing. Items may be added or removed from the shown date at any time and for any reason prior to the publication of the agenda eight days prior to the next Council meeting.
Date Agenda Item
(Date identified by Council)
Agenda Section
(Consent,
Discussion Item -
note in red if
Public Hearing)
Dept.
Construction Contract Award: Fremont Avenue Pedestrian Bridge Rehabilitation Project, TS-01055 (1)
April 26, 2022 REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
May 3, 2022 Joint Meeting w/Commissions
May 10, 2022 REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
Resolution Calling for Election (?)
3rd Quarter Report
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
May 24, 2022 Resolution Calling for Election (?)
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
June 14, 2022 Adopt Resolution No. 2022-XX approving the Report of Sewer Service Charges and directing the Filing of Charges for Collection by the Tax Collector
2 Printed Public
Hearing -
- not less than 10
days - published
once a week for
two consecutive
weeks 5/11/2022
& 5/18/2022
June 28, 2022 REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
766
Agenda Item # 8.
City of Los Altos Tentative Council Agenda Calendar
February 3, 2022
All items and dates are tentative and subject to change unless a specific date has been noticed for a legally required Public Hearing. Items may be added or removed from the shown date at any time and for any reason prior to the publication of the agenda eight days prior to the next Council meeting.
Date Agenda Item
(Date identified by Council)
Agenda Section
(Consent,
Discussion Item -
note in red if
Public Hearing)
Dept.
July 12, 2022 REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
August 23, 2022 REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
August 30, 2022 Commission Interviews
September 6, 2022 REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
September 20, 2022* Year End tentative report – September (if needed) October 11, 2022 REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
October 25, 2022 REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
November 1, 2021 Joint w/Commissions
November 15, 2022 * REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
1st Quarter report FY 2021/2022
November 29, 2022 REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
December 6, 2022 CAFR and Year End – 1st meeting December December 13, 2022 Special meeting REORG.
Future Agenda Topics To Be Scheduled….
Day 3 Planning 3/1(?)
115 Plan 4/12
767
Agenda Item # 8.
City of Los Altos Tentative Council Agenda Calendar
February 3, 2022
All items and dates are tentative and subject to change unless a specific date has been noticed for a legally required Public Hearing. Items may be added or removed from the shown date at any time and for any reason prior to the publication of the agenda eight days prior to the next Council meeting.
Date Agenda Item
(Date identified by Council)
Agenda Section
(Consent,
Discussion Item -
note in red if
Public Hearing)
Dept.
Mid Year Budget report 4
Report from Police Facility Subcommittee 2/22
Compensation Philosophy 3/8
Proposed City policy that modifies the environmental analysis standard for circulation impacts from a Level of Service (LOS) analysis to a Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) analysis.
Public Hearing
info on Cuesta speed tables
League of California Cities – Role and Representation Presentation/Disc ussion
Council
Initiated
Comprehensive multi-modal traffic study (analysis of recent projects projected parking, trip generation, & traffic impacts to actuals; ECR impacts should include adjacent streets) ES
768
Agenda Item # 8.