| Providence
bans dogs from parks
By Maddie Wilson
March 1, 2007 | PROVIDENCE -- The Providence City
Council decided Tuesday to ban dogs from city parks,
unless they are service dogs, there is a city-sponsored
event or they are in an area specifically authorized
by the city.
After over a month of debate, resident Linda Goetze,
who researched other city’s park rules, is glad that
the council passed the ordinance, even though she said
she would like to have dogs in Von’s Park.
“It’s OK,” said Goetze. “I don’t want it (the ordinance)
to be procrastinated.”
Val Simmons, resident and brother of Mayor Randy Simmons,
said dogs do not belong in city parks.
“I like dogs,” said Simmons. “But a public park is
not the place for dogs.”
The council also discussed nominations for an appeals
authority, which will consist of four residents and
one professional who does not have to be a resident.
Council members motioned to continue discussion until
the next meeting.
Mayor Simmons nominated Idaho resident Larry Boothe
for the professional position, as well as Dale Astle,
Mike Lewis, Mary Hubbard and Diane Astle for the resident
positions. Simmons said he chose people who have had
experience with appeals.
Some members of the audience quietly disapproved of
Larry Boothe, mumbling and whispering that an appeals
authority member should at least be a Utah resident.
Council member Kathy Baker nominated Richard Eames
and Don Calderwood for residential positions.
Both Simmons and Baker said those nominated previously
agreed to take the positions if chosen.
Mayor Simmons said the appeals authority’s purpose
is not to judge the merits of city commissions, but
to determine if the law and due process have been followed.
The council will meet again March 13, at the Providence
City Office Building, 15 S. Main.
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