Dog Park Funding Goes Begging

On July 27 you reported that financial restrictions facing the Conejo Recreation and Park District have resulted in “severe cost-cutting strategies.”

The irony is that the Conejo Recreation and Park District has been offered literally thousands of free dollars to establish a park that would benefit a substantial percentage of valley residents, yet the district is failing to utilize this free money. Why? Sheer inaction by the district.

More than a year ago, a group of dog enthusiasts offered to donate thousands of dollars to establish a leash-free dog park, fully enclosed by fencing. The group also volunteered to help maintain the park. Dog lovers throughout our valley desperately want such a park.

The only holdup is that the district has failed to designate an area for the fence to be built.

The district is not representing the desires of its constituents, including those who want to use the leash-free dog park, as well as those who want leash-free dogs to be contained. Thousands of freely donated dollars are waiting. The district’s default is financially wasteful.

LAURA BETH SALANT

Westlake Village