Larry Smith and his dogs Boo, Skipper and Bridget take a walk in the park area on the north side of the Altus City Reservoir. This is the one of the locations being considered for the dog park.
Altus Times photo by Michael Bush
Altus Dog Park organizers have amassed a total of $13,062.23 for fencing materials, and volunteers from Altus Air Force Base have already signed up to to put the fence up. Keith Sands will supervise the effort.
They have also collected 450 signatures of those in favor of a dog park in Altus.
There are at least two possible sites for the dog park, according to Parks and Recreation Director Randy Marple. One is located on the north side of the City Reservoir and the other is on the north side of the apartments on Tamarack Road.
Council member Jack Smiley made a motion to survey the people living near those areas to see if there is support from them. The motion was approved. City Attorney Catherine Coke will look at the liability issues. This will be presented to the council again.
Those who spoke in support of this park were: Karen Garrett, Kim Huckill, and Larry Smith.
Smith began the push for a dog park in Altus about a year and a half ago, first approaching the City Parks Department, then the City Council. Since that time, several fund raisers have been held including bake sales, raffles and the sale of personalized bricks with pet’s names on them. (The deadline is fast approaching for anyone who still wants a brick, so contact Smith at 482-9113 if you want one.)
Smith said there have been several people who have helped get the dog park to this stage including Jennifer Otto, Larry Whetstone and the Altus Times.
“I just can’t believe it has come together like it has,” Smith said. “This will be a great place for dog owners to bring their pets and let them romp and play with other animals. I look forward to seeing how much enjoyment the citizens of Altus will get out this park.”
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