[BCNnet] Thatcher Alternative?

[Anderson, Jill]

Randi (et al),
You've previously mentioned the commissioners' roles, including the
conflicting roles of Commissioner Silvestri. 
He is a strong supporter of the Beck Lake FDA, which is in his District, and
the Thatcher Woods FDA, also in his district.
The first place to consider in terms of a City or Village Park near Thatcher
(as opposed to the FP), would, of course, be the Village of Elmwood Park,
where he is Mayor. 
Peter Silvestri perceives the majority of taxpayers to be supportive of
these parks, so this should not be as difficult of a request for him as it
would be in another nearby Village, where generation of support would need
be created anew. The Dog Group should have the best chance of success at
obtaining land in Elmwood Park, due to Peter Silvestri's strong support. 
Also, having a dog park located in Elmwood Park would give the Dog Owners
the best chance at having the necessary resources for monitoring and
enforcement as well. If you check the webpage (online forum for reviews and
comments) for  "Wiggley Field", which was the first Dog Park in Chicago, you
will see that utilizers of Wiggley Field are unhappy with the lack of
enforcement at that site, resulting in numerous complaints and no contact
person to whom they can air their concerns. 
Given the mission of the FP District, I do feel that a request for public
land in the FP for use as a private dog park poses a conflict, and is
inappropriate.
I am absolutely uninformed on the use, intent, politics or maintenance of
City Parks, and defer to others with more experience and information on this
matter. 

Jill Anderson
BCN Bird Monitor- Thatcher