By RUSSELL JONES
A committee is being formed to bring a dog park to Brandon. Leading the project is Brandon resident Sharon Stearns, former president of the Brandon Chamber of Commerce, who said she is looking for an energetic committee to assist with fundraising and final plans for the park.
The goal is a half-acre park enclosed by a six-foot high chain link fence with double door entrances and a mowing entrance. Extras would include a rule sign, dog waste bin with bag dispenser and a sign recognizing donors.
Stearns said a site at Estabrook Park has been selected and approved by the town in 2018. Donors will be solicited for various levels of support.
“A dog park would provide a fenced place for dogs to play, socialize and walk with their owners,” Stearns said. “Some fence has already been donated.”
Selectboard chairman Seth Hopkins said the issue has not come before the board, but added not all matters like this need to.
“I think it’s great when people who have particular interests take the initiative to partner with the town to make progress that many people can enjoy,” Hopkins said. “A dog park would be a nice way to build community among families and individuals with dogs.”
Recreation Department Director Bill Moore said he met with Stearns last summer about creating a dog park on an unused portion of Estabrook Park.
“I have spoken with other Rec directors about the pros and cons and feel like Brandon is ready for this type of park resource,” Moore said. “This is another great way to get people in our community to connect with one another.”Stearns encouraged those who might want to volunteer, donate or participate as a committee member to contact her at 802-989-0667. A meeting on Thursday, June 20, at 6 p.m. will be held at Estabrook Park for planning the next steps.
