June 21, 2012

Dear Albany Resident,

Recently City staff and the Parks and Recreation Commission have received a number of complaints regarding the use of Section B at the Memorial Park ball field. Section B is the small section that is fenced in closest to Carmel Avenue. The nature of the complaints pertain to the large number of dogs in the area, excessive barking, shouting from owners at their dogs, lack of parking due to owners driving their dogs to the park, and the deterioration of the turf due to heavy use.

As a reminder to those of you that use Section B to exercise/socialize your dogs, please be sure adhere to the City’s Municipal Codes when using the area.

Municipal Code 10-3.2. It shall be unlawful for the guardian/owner or person having custody of any dog to fail to immediately remove and dispose of dog defecation in a sanitary manner.

Municipal Code: 10-4.2. All dogs at all times must be under proper control and supervision by a capable person.

Municipal Code 10-4.2 Resolution 09-45: NO DOGS ALLOWED inside the ball field fence during the following times, days, and events. (This includes Section B)

(1) Saturdays from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.;

(2) Mondays and Thursdays from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. during

daylight savings time; (Posted dates on bulletin board or at www.albanyca.org/rec)

(3) Mondays and Thursday from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. during

standard time; (Posted dates on bulletin board or at www.albanyca.org/rec)

(4) When a field user has acquired a permit through the City of Albany for use of the
sports field. (See posted dates on bulletin board or at www.albanyca.org/rec)

A violation of any provision in this section shall be an infraction punishable according to the Master Fee Schedule. (Ord. #98-02, §1; Ord. #04-03, §1)

If you have any questions/concerns/comments regarding Section B, please feel free to email Penelope Leach, pleach@albanyca.org. All emails will be forwarded to the Parks and Recreation Commission. The Parks and Recreation Commission discussed the use and current conditions of Section B at the June 14, Commission meeting and will continue to agendize Section B at Memorial Park ball field to discuss with the community possible solutions for creating a space that meets the needs of the community, is used in a way that is respectful of the nearby residents, and is programmed appropriately given its limited size.

To receive agendas for the Parks and Recreation Commission (as well as any of the City’s public meetings) please sign-up for the City’s E-notification by going to the City’s website, www.albanyca.org and clicking on E-notification at the top of the home page.

Sincerely,
Penelope Leach
City of Albany
Assistant City Manager/Community Services Director