FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 19, 2012
Contact: Ann Ober
801-535-7753

City to Host Panel on Off-Leash Programs
Public discussion aimed at collaborative problem solving
 
SALT LAKE CITY – Salt Lake City, in partnership with Salt Lake County Animal Services, is hosting a moderated public panel from 6:30-8 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 24 at the Salt Lake City Main Library Auditorium, 210 E. 400 South, to discuss off-leash dog services and amenities provided by the City.  
 
The goal of the forum is to gather ideas and feedback from residents on how the City can improve the way off-leash parks are used and maintained, potential new off-leash parks and how to nurture a positive environment for all users of parks and public spaces.
 
Over the past year, City representatives have been meeting with residents and crafting program alternatives aimed at providing an increased level of service for on-leash and off-leash facilities.
 
“Cities across the United States have seen an increase in interest from their communities in creating opportunities for dogs and their guardians to recreate together,” said Salt Lake City Administrative Services Director Ann Ober. “Our outreach process is aimed at better understanding what types of services our Salt Lake City residents want and finding solutions for providing these types of opportunities.”
 
The panel discussion and public Q&A forum is beingmoderated by Jennifer Napier-Pearce, veteran Salt Lake City journalist and host of KCPW’s CityViews, and will be recorded for broadcast the next day on the station.  The public is invited and encouraged to attend the discussion.
 
Residents are also invited to participate in the decision making process via the City’s web-based Open City Hall forum. Several topics specific to off-leash amenities may be found at: http://www.slcgov.com/opencityhall.

 
EVENT:        Off-Leash Solutions Panel Discussion
 
WHO:        Salt Lake City Administrative Services Director Ann Ober
                 Salt Lake City Parks & Public Lands Director Emy Maloutas
                 Millcreek F.I.D.O.S Co-Chairwoman Polly Hart
                 Salt Lake City Water Quality Treatment Administrator Florence Reynolds
                 Animal Behaviorist, Heather Beck
                 Salt Lake County Public Works Director Patrick Leary
 
WHEN:       Wednesday, Oct. 24
                   6:30-8 p.m.
 
WHERE:        Salt Lake City Main Library
                     Auditorium (atrium level)
                     210 E. 400 South