It deeply saddens me that Commissioner Leslie Osche and the park board do not plan to meet until Feb. 21 to discuss potential solutions for reopening Jade’s Dog Park. As of the scheduled meeting date of Feb. 21, the park will have been closed for 45 days.

If there aren’t any plans for reopening the park prior to Feb. 21, I truly hope that an emergency meeting will be scheduled much sooner, as our dogs deserve to have their Jade’s Dog Park privileges returned. They have been punished long enough, through no fault of their own.

Jade, the inspiration behind Jade’s Dog Park, was my dog. The park was built out of love from many donors in the community, which included both businesses and individuals as well as grant money from the DCNR — all keeping in mind the well-being of dogs and their humans. It was built to be used, not padlocked.

Jade’s Dog Park is a community area that has become a destination for many. Please unlock the gates and re-open the park with the necessary “No Winter Maintenance, Use at Your Own Risk” signs in place.

Laurel Saylor

Butler, PA