Town of Yountville
Staff Report
6550 Yount Street
Yountville, CA 94599
Agenda Item #: {{section.number}}B
Yountville Town Council Staff Report
DATE: May 21, 2024
TO: Mayor and Town Council
FROM: Samantha Holland, Parks & Recreation Director
PREPARED BY: Samantha Holland, Parks & Recreation Director
RECOMMENDATION
Interim Dog Park Design and Policies for Discussion, Feedback and Approval
DISCUSSION/BACKGROUND
In the adopted Parks and Recreation Master Plan, a dog park was identified as a priority goal by the community. In the public input process the dog park suggestion came up more than any other. As part of the implementation of that Master Plan, staff brought forward at the March 21, 2024 Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission meeting several potential sites for a trial program of off-leash dog hours in parks as well as a preliminary design for a dog run area at the South end of Veterans Memorial Park in the undeveloped lot. Staff heard feedback from many residents as well as from the Commission at that meeting.
Feedback received from the Community and the Commission was that the school field would be a better site for a dog park/run area. Although some residents were supportive of the off-leash hours, many were not in favor for various reasons at the sites presented.
In the meantime, the Town closed escrow on the school site and plans for interim uses are being developed.
In working with consultants, Town staff has drafted the attached design utilizing the north-east side of the existing field were there is an unused baseball diamond and dugouts. The site would be improved using existing amenities like the fencing and dugouts and adding new movable fencing to create two secure areas with individual double entry gates. The proposed use would be considered interim while the Town goes through the long range planning process for the school site.
DESIGN
• Utilize existing dugouts and fencing. Dugouts screening fences to be removed to create a shaded sitting area for dog owners.
• 5’ Tall non permanent fencing will be installed to contain the area. • Mutt Mitt and Trash Stations to be added
• Water Access and Bowls added
• Double gated entry for safety
• Two fenced areas, Active Area and Passive Area, to provide space for different types of users. • Existing grass will be left in place. Staff to monitor and assess future need for ground materials based on use.
• Signage with rules and regulations to be posted at all entrances.
DRAFT POLICIES
PASSIVE POOCH AREA
– Lower Energy Play
– Roaming, sniffing and socializing
– All size of dogs are welcome
ACTIVE EXERCISE AREA
– High Energy Play
– Fetch, Run, Chase, and Play encouraged
– All size of dogs are welcome
GENERAL RULES
Hours 8 AM – Dusk
No excessive barking.
Dogs must always be monitored by their owner.
Dogs must be on leash when coming and going and until they enter the holding area and both gates are closed. Dogs must be under voice control.
Grooming is not allowed.
All dogs must be healthy, licensed, over 4 months old and be currently vaccinated. Absolutely no female dogs in heat are allowed.
Smoking or vaping is not allowed.
Food is not allowed.
Glass is not allowed.
All children under 13 must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Owners are responsible for the acts and conduct of their animal. Park users and dog owners assume all risks related to the use of the dog park. For the safety of all dogs, immediately leash your dog if it exhibits aggressive behavior and leave the dog park area.
You are required to clean up after your dog. Waste bags and receptacles are available. ALL dog bites must be reported to Napa County Animal Control 707-253-4452 Please call 911 for Emergencies or the Napa County Sheriff's Department Non-Emergency Number (707)257-9223 to report a non-emergency issue.
Signs to be posted in English and Spanish.
OVER SITE & OPERATIONS
• Staff to assemble a citizen steering group which will assist with monitoring, providing feedback and assisting staff with feedback, planning and day to day monitoring of the park. • Staff will gather information on ongoing maintenance and operations during the interim phase to make future recommendations on improvements.
• Staff will track issues complaints along with the Sheriff’s Depatment for ongoing review of policies.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
Not Applicable
FISCAL IMPACT
Is there a Fiscal Impact? Yes
Is it Currently Budgeted? Yes
Where is it Budgeted? Capitol Projects Fund 50 - Yountville Commons Is it Mandatory or Discretionary? Discretionary
Is there a Staff Resource Impact? Yes
STRATEGIC PLAN GOAL
Is item Identified in Strategic Plan? Indirectly
If yes, Identify Strategic Goal and Objective. Engaged Residents: The Town embraces our residents' commitment to community as seen through volunteerism, civic engagement, and public participation that enhances the quality of life in Yountville. Quality of Life: The Town enhances the livability of Yountville by providing well-maintained public facilities, parks, and trails, and quality programs and events.
Briefly Explain Relationship to Strategic Plan Goal and Objective. Engaged residents in the Parks and Recreation Master Plan process provided feedback that a dog park is a requested amenity for Town. A dog park could improve the quality of life for residents by providing a safe space to exercise and socialize.