Off-leash dog park moves step closer

Moose Jaw's canine population's dream of an off-leash playground is moving one step closer to becoming a reality.
Parks for Paws, a group of Moose Javians working to create an off-leash area for dogs in the city, will hold its annual general meeting Monday at 7 p.m. at the Gary Overs training facility.
Kelly Gross, the founder of Parks for Paws, said the main objective of the meeting will be to elect a board of directors.
She said it is exciting to finally be at a place where she will be able to work closely with a group of people passionate about the project who want to see it come full circle.
Gross said creating a board will bring the organization one step closer to being recognized as a non-profit group.
As a non-profit organization, the group will be able to apply for grants and sponsorships, which will help with the costs of getting the park started and possibly any other future costs.
"This is our first AGM and I feel really good about it and excited. I am finally at the place I have wanted to be for a long time."
During the meeting, Gross said she will also be selling memberships, which will cost approximately $10 and discuss possible locations.
She said the purchase of a membership will mainly be to support the group and help get things up and running.
"I am expecting a city representative to come and help with the discussion as well."
Gross would like to begin fundraising and expanding the base of supporters for the park, so when she takes it to council, members will see how many people want the dog park.
"The support has been great thus far and as people hear about what we are trying to do, it sparks their interest, they ask questions and then (we are left with) one more supporter."
For more information on Parks for Paws and the AGM call Gross at 692-7329 or e-mail dk.gross@shaw.ca.