busy busy

smoggy day...

started work at 6, so we walked at about 10:15. it was really busy. the women at the top of the pic past the bikers had 3 dogs- 2 off leash where they should have been on leash and one on leash.

there are always going to be some people who think the rules just don't apply to them. there will always be folks who don't pick up, or who don't see their dogs as a problem. we have made great progress this summer (i have heard it from ridge to rivers staff, and in fcac meetings) and we can make more progress, but we will never reach everyone. just like swimba won't reach all of the mt bike riders.

given the amount of progress seen in a relatively short time period, much of it before enforcement actively started (PET patrol started september 1, before that it was hit or miss police coverage), we have a lot to be proud of.

i sure hope that all of the time and effort we've invested is acknowledged by the fcac when they decide what recommendations to pass along to city council.

if the primary issue to be addressed was a public health issue- regarding poop & unruly dogs- which is what i heard in one of the fcac meetings- we have come a long way. we need to stay on it, and there is still room for improvement, but dog owners really stepped up, took on the challenge and responded.

if the committee restricts access after all of our hard work, what sort of message does that send? i can live with an expanded on leash area at trail heads & parking lots, and with things being reviewed annually.

policy for all user groups should probably undergo a formalized review annually so everyone understands the process and people know what is expected of them. policies may need to be changed, but all groups should be treated equally and consistently.

it will be interesting to see what happens.

unfortunately i'll be out of town on business next wednesday, but margie will be at the meeting. i encourage those of you who can make it to do so.

if you have (polite, constructive) input for the committee, please send your comments to julia ( jgrant@cityofboise.org ) .