Poland residents voice views on dog-leash law

Staff report

POLAND

About 20 people attended Tuesday’s village council meeting to voice their opinions to a proposed change to the forest dog-leash law.

Council gave first reading to an ordinance that would require all dogs to be leashed in Poland Municipal Forest.

In December 2007, council approved an ordinance stating dogs could be unleashed from Butler Trail to Interstate 680, which is in the western part of the forest, but must be leashed in the remaining area, which includes the popular Bluebell Trail.

Under the proposed ordinance, a dog caught off a leash results in a $100 fine to the owner, said Councilman Joe Mazur.

Bob Zedaker, forest board chairman, said the board recommended the change after several incidences of dog bites. Also, the law would keep student athletes safe from dogs roaming unleashed, he said.

Several residents spoke against the measure, with many asking if the problem could be alleviated if village government enforced the leash law better and had clearer signs about the law within the forest.

“It’s unfortunate that people have been bitten. But how will the leash law be preventive? How will it cure the problem?” asked resident Yvonne Ford.

Solicitor Anthony D’Apolito suggested allowing unleashing throughout the forest only during set hours.