7.1 PRSR 10-09-2019
The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional
service, and community engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity
Request for Action
To
Parks and Recreation Commission
Item Number
7.1
Agenda Section
Action Item
Meeting Date
October 9, 2019
Prepared by
Michael Hecker, Parks and Recreation Director
Item Description
WHHCA Dog Ordinance
Reviewed by
Cal Portner, City Administrator
Reviewed by
Ron Nierenhausen, Police Chief
Action Requested
Discuss an ordinance prohibiting dogs at the William H. Houlton Conservation Area (WHHCA).
Recommend, by action, an ordinance to prohibit dogs at WHHCA.
Background/Discussion
On September 11, 2019, the Commission indicated interest in an ordinance prohibiting dogs at the
WHHCA. Commissioners requested to hear from public safety so Police Chief Ron Nierenhausen and
DNR Conservation Officer Trent Seamans were invited to attend the meeting.
It was stated at the September 11 meeting that the WHHCA Natural Resource Management Plan
specifically does not allow dogs for the growth of a high quality habitat for wildlife. Staff reviewed the
plan and spoke with the FMR Ecologist who authored the plan who stated “the plan does not mention
dogs, nor should the plan be used as a justification either way.”
“No Dogs Allowed” signs were posted at the property soon after it was open to the public at the request
of the WHHCA steward and recommended by the committee.
City ordinance requires dogs to be under the owner’s control at all times and is enforceable by the Elk
River Police Department. The department has no authority to enforce a No Dogs Allowed policy.
Financial Impact
N/A
Attachments
WHHCA Planning Committee Minutes January 26, 2015, to September 26, 2015
WHHCA City Ordinance 16-09
WHHCA Hunting Regulation Signs
City Ordinance Sec. 10-2 Running at Large