A group of Saanich residents have launched a petition to see the new fencing in PKOLS removed and changed.
Even though the time for public engagement has come and gone for the PKOLS fencing improvements, these residents believe that the new fencing is an eye-sore and diminishes the park’s beauty.
The initiative to have the new fencing changed is being led by Eulala Mills and Trish Fougner of Happy Dogs in Parks, a group that formed to advocate for more off-leash dog parks in Saanich while the District formed its People, Pets and Parks policy.
“Saanich is installing Peg and Wire Fencing throughout the off leash loop in PKOLS,” wrote Eulala and Trish of Happy Dogs in Parks.
“It is damaging to the character and experince [sic] of the park.”
They added that, although work on the fencing has begun, there may be a short window where Saanich may change the style of the fencing in PKOLS.
The petition is a private form, so the number of people who have signed it is unknown at this time.
Right around the time this petition was launched, some of the new fencing was allegedly vandalized.
Saanich Mayor Dean Murdock released a statement last week regarding the vandalism, the new fencing and dog owners who use the park.
He wrote that ultimately, the fencing is intended to protect sensitive ecosystems in the park, while also allowing dogs and their owners to enjoy roaming leash-optional areas.
“Damage to the fence costs taxpayers money, and takes our park staff away from the important work they can be doing around Saanich,” said Murdock.
“It’s particularly concerning when I know we all have budgets and financial pressures on our minds.”
Murdock noted that following the vandalism, the District would be taking additional measures to secure the construction site.
On the Happy Dogs in Saanich Facebook group, some dog-owners took this message as a personal affront.
“I’m truly disappointed that you seemed to blame dog owners for this act of vandalism,” wrote group member Jaye Pelton.
“You make this veiled accusation without a shred of proof, and continue to threaten off leash access to the tiny portion of Pkols [sic] that has been allocated for leash optional recreation, which only serves to emphasize the perception that Saanich considers dog owners to be vandals.”
In his video and statement, Mayor Murdock did not allege that dog owners, or any particular group of people were responsible for the damage. He merely asked that people respect the integrity of the park and called for the vandalism to stop.
The new fencing installation began in February and is expected to be finished by spring.
