Dogs may soon be able to spend a couple more hours off leash at a few parks in Encinitas.
This has been a hotly debated issue. Wednesday night was no exception, according the North County Times.
The Encinitas Parks and Recreation Commission has recommended the expansion of off-leash hours at Hawk View and Glen Park on Orinda Drive.
Currently, the city allows dogs on leashes in all of its parks and three parks already have set hours for the animals to roam without their leashes.
Violators face a $445 fine.
The City council took up the issue Wednesday night and dozens of residents weighed in.
In the past, some people have voiced safety concerns about having unleashed dogs in an area where children play. Others are upset about the pollution caused by the animals at the parks where dogs are allowed off-leash.
Deputy Mayor Maggie Houlihan said there have been a number of intimidating comments and e-mails from the public opposing expanded off-leash hours, according to the North County Times.
The parks and rec commission reportedly suggested fencing so kids and dogs would be separated.
The Parks and Recreation Commission also recommended the city monitor off-leash use to see if demand exceeds available space and hours and proposed that alcohol and glass containers be banned from areas designated for off-leash hours.
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