No dogs allowed at Jade's Dog Park in Butler Township as it is closed for the season. Cary Shaffer/Butler Eagle

While an alternative solution is being sought, the county Park Advisory Board voted Tuesday, Feb. 21, to keep Jade’s Dog Park closed until March 31, according to county Commissioner Leslie Osche.

Osche, who is also a member of the park board, said about 20 concerned residents attended the board meeting to voice concerns and hear the verdict.

According to Osche, the commissioners are crafting solutions to the problem — access to a dog park.

“We’re committed to seeking options for a secondary park that’d allow for easier access in winter months,” she said.

The park closed in December after county solicitor Wil White said safety concerns were brought to his attention.

“Even though (park) roads were closed, people were trying to access the dog park. There were multiple reports of people slipping and falling and even report of an injury,” he said. “I spoke with our insurance carrier, and he agreed with me that if we can’t have people accessing the park safely, we can’t put the county and its taxpayers at risk for liability.”

The Jade’s Dog Park Facebook page announced the road to access the park was closed as of Dec. 1, 2022, and said the park would reopen in April 2023.

Alameda Park and Diamond Park are owned by the county.

“With (the Americans with Disabilities Act), either both the road gate and the park have to be open or both have to be closed,” Osche said. “We don’t have the capability to maintain the road right now. Going forward, I think we can address that before next season.”

Osche added there’s a possibility Jade’s Dog Park could reopen sooner, but all three county commissioners are committed to the option of a secondary location.

“We would work with the group that showed up to create a smaller committee to work with the board. That’s probably the best option for all concerned,” she said.