OAK LAWN
Dog park may still have its day
An Oak Lawn Park District-owned piece of land on the village’s west side may soon literally go to the dogs.
The district board is considering creating the village’s first dog park on the plot, a 1.73-acre vacant parcel along Melvina Avenue between 99th and 100th streets. The property is just west of Columbus Manor Park at 99th Street and Moody Avenue.
Park District Commissioner Mary Wallace, long an advocate of a fenced-in, outdoor park facility where dogs can run and play unleashed, proposed the park to the district’s board earlier this month. A decision on whether or not to proceed could come as early as August.
While discussing Wallace’s recommendation at a board meeting this month, district Superintendent Joel Craig noted the parcel is ideal for a dog park because it is not immediately adjacent to houses or other buildings.
The only significant cost to the district, Wallace said, would be the fencing needed around the perimeter of the parcel. The money for that and the dog park’s upkeep could be covered by the proceeds from fundraising initiatives and fees charged dog owners who want to use the park.
If built, the Oak Lawn dog park would be one of a few currently available in the south suburbs. The closest to the village currently is a dog park in Blue Island operated by the suburb’s park district. It opened last October.
— Stan Ziemba
NEW LENOX
Village waives water reconnect fees for needy
The Village Board recently agreed to waive fees for those receiving assistance after having their water shut off.
The village shuts off water service after three months of nonpayment. Finance Director Kim Auchstetter said between 20 and 30 homes have water turned off per month.
The ordinance allows for waived late fees and reconnection fees to recipients of utility payment assistance under the New Lenox Township Emergency Assistance Program.
The township program requires proof of residency, income and notices of disconnection. Those receiving monthly welfare payments are not eligible. Only those who show the water shutoff poses an imminent peril to health and safety are eligible. The village will not waive the water fees to someone more than once per year.
Mayor Tim Balderman said the village is not eager to turn off water on people. “We’re very lenient,” he said.
— Jeff Borgardt
