District 5 City Councilman Brian Maienschein is determined to build a Dog Park in Rancho Bernardo before the end of 2001. "I know there are many RB residents who would like a place nearby to take their dogs for exercise, and for dog owners to socialize!" Maienschein said. "Right now they have no place to do so, but now a site has been located that will not take away any park space, and will also be fenced for protection."

The site has been located. The future dog park is located south of the Rancho Bernardo Community Park and north of the Metro Wastewater Treatment plant on the west side of Rancho Bernardo Road. Meetings have been scheduled in September with Metro Wastewater who currently have the rights to the property and the Park and Recreation Department who will maintain the dog park once it is complete.

In the meantime, Maienschein is securing funding to complete the transaction. "Once the Metro Wastewater Department and the Park and Recreation Department are all in agreement I will bring this item before the City Council for approval," he said.

Council member Maienschein is committed to providing a park and grading the land necessary for the installation of the dog park. He will also provide a water source for the dogs in addition to encouraging reclaimed water for maintenance.

This will be a three-phased project: first, buying and grading the land, and installing a fresh and reclaimed water source. Up in the air at the moment is who will pay for the fencing and sod. The second stage is asphalt for parking; the third stage will be lighting.

The backers of the RB Dog Park are gratified that Maienschein is so committed to this project. He campaigned on improving our neighborhoods and our community, and he is sticking to his word. If you would like to be a part of this very worth while effort, please email your name, address, telephone, and email address to DogPark@rbernardo.com/ Or call 858-487-4012. Volunteers are very much needed and appreciated. Lets get organized today.

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