B.A.R.C.O. Boyertown Area Responsible Canine Owners

Transcription

1 B.A.R.C.O. Boyertown Area Responsible Canine Owners PO Box 1086, Boyertown, PA Website: Contact: President: Vicki Marsh BUSINESS PLAN SEPTEMBER, 2012 Submitted By: B.A.R.C.O. Board of Directors (See Addendum A)

2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Boyertown Area Responsible Canine Owners, LLC. exists to create a public dog park which will not only give Boyertown area dogs a safe place to exercise, it will also give Boyertown and surrounding area residents a community gathering place where they, too, can gain exercise and the opportunity to meet their neighbors. This document outlines the proposed design, maintenance plan and budget to create a top-quality dog park at Boyertown Community Park in Boyertown, PA. The Plan includes the design of a dog park in a three phased approach, with the funding to be raised through contributions from the community s residents and businesses, fund raising events, as well as grants as outlined in section VII subsection A. Keys to the success of this business plan are as follows: a partnership between BARCO and the Boyertown Borough to establish a thorough plan of action with open lines of communication to ensure the communities best interests; a partnership between BARCO and the Park and Recreation Committee to ensure the ongoing success and maintenance of the dog park; Involvement of local individuals and businesses that have shown a huge support of the dog park as a public facility located on public land which will enhance Boyertown s economy as well as its social dynamics. The dedication of B.A.R.C.O. s strong and well organized volunteer group to maintaining the highest standards for the creation of a quality park and the ongoing improvement of our community. Our Board of Directors is comprised of dedicated individuals who have upstanding reputations in Boyertown and surrounding communities. Our officers will play key roles in the implementation of this plan President - Vicki Marsh currently works as an Associate Agent for Nationwide Insurance with Davidheiser Insurance & Financial Services and is devoted to giving back to the community. She previously ran Girl Scout Troup #759 of St John s Church in Boyertown, volunteered with Meals on Wheels of Pottstown, PA. She spearheaded this project and will continue to oversee it throughout her term of office. Vice President - Theresa Vaughn Geary is the CEO of the Boyertown YMCA. She is well known and respected for her work with the Y as well as with many other organizations in Boyertown. Treasurer Samuel Zimmer assists in managing Zimmers Pets and has also established his own wholesale company Amino Products which is already making strides in pet retail avenues. Sam is well known in Boyertown for his hard work, dedication and volunteer work with local organizations such as the BBB and Rotary Club. Secretary Debbie Delp is a hard working and outstanding citizen of Boyertown as well as an avid dog lover. She works for Douglas A. Haring & Company RE Advisors in Reading and is fully dedicated to BARCO s endeavor. This Business Plan has been developed after many months of research into other successful dog parks and consultation with numerous dog behavior specialists. Having investigated all aspects thoroughly, we are certain that the B.A.R.C.O. Dog Park will be a huge success. ~ Page 2 ~

3 TABLE OF CONTENTS I. MISSION STATEMENT II. III. IV. NEEDS ANALYSIS ORGANIZATIONAL HISTORY ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE A. BOARD B. COMMITTEES C. VOLUNTEERS D. MEMBERSHIP V. PHYSICAL DESIGN AND SITE LOCATION A. SITE B. DESIGN C. FENCE D, GATES VI. PARK ADMINISTRATION A. SAFTEY/RULE B. NOISE ABATEMENT C. MAINTENANCE D. DISPUTE RESOLUTIONS VII. PROJECT BUDGET A. FUNDING PLAN B. EXPENSES VIII. FUTURE PLANNING AND SUPPORT IX. CONCLUSION X. ADDENDUMS A. Board of Directors B. Rough Draft of Park Design C. Rules & Regulations D. Articles of Incorporation E. NonProfit Registration Certificate ~ Page 3 ~

4 I. MISSION STATEMENT Boyertown Area Responsible Canine Owners B.A.R.C.O. is a self sufficient, community driven organization that is seeking to maintain an area where well behaved canines and their owners can exercise in a clean, safe environment and to promote responsible dog ownership and recreation within our community. II. NEEDS ANALYSIS A. Demographics of Boyertown School District: Population est. 37,265 people Dog Population est dogs # of Parks for People: at least 15 # of Parks for Dogs & People: 0 B. Dog Trends in Boyertown School District Dog sitting/walking/care businesses - 6 Kennels - 5 Groomers - 5 Dog Training Professionals - 3 Dog Bakery -1 Veterinarians 3 Pet Stores 2 Wholesale Companies 2 C. Examples of Successful Dog Parks in PA Doylestown Dog Park: Doylestown PA 501c3 group - Group began 2009, Plan Approved March 2011, Phase I goal $86,425, Total cash raised $150,000, Broke ground March 2012, Grand Opening Sept. 22 nd 2012 Perkasie Dog Park: Perkasie PA 501c3 group Group began 2005, Opened Spring 2011, Funding Goal $9,922, Raised more than $30,000 Reservoir Dog Park: Phoenixville, PA 501c3 group Group Began 2002, Approved 2004 Still going strong! D. Benefits to community Outlet for education, recreation, and entertainment Minimize unwanted dog behavior Improve dog owner responsibility Enhance and improve utilization of parks Decrease inappropriate activity at parks Increased Revenue Improve dog licensing, health and enforcement of dog laws E. General Benefits of Dog Parks Mental and physical health of humans and canines Safe area for canine exercise Socialization of Owners ~ Page 4~

5 Responsible dog ownership Exercised dog = happy dog Exercised owner = happy owner Proper outlet for dog energy F. Benefits for owners Increase physical activity Better behaved dog Socialization/Friendship Sense of community Get outside Fun! G. Dog F.A.Q.S "Most authorities on pet behavior contend that dogs require an outlet for their energy in order to alleviate boredom and reduce destructive behavior." - Dog Parks: Benefits and Liabilities by Laura Allen "There are approximately seventy-three million dogs in the United States and 50 million owners. (American Pet Products manufacturers Association, ) "Approximately 60% have one dog, 25% have two dogs, and 15% have three or more dogs." (The Humane Society, 2007). "Dog parks encourage responsible pet ownership along with the enforcement of dog-control laws." - In nature dogs were pack animals and the need for domesticated breeds to interact with other members of its species remains a part of their nature (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, 2006) A dog socializes through displays of subtle posturing and behavior and a leash inhibits communication with other dogs. A leash restricts a dog s natural movements and a leashed dog can become territorial and protective. Stecchi, 2006 III. ORGANIZATIONAL HISTORY August Decision to begin BARCO to establish a dog park and encourage responsible d ownership in the Boyertown and local areas. September BARCO website was created October First meeting BBB to determine realistic possibilities, ideas, and project planning for BARCO and determine projected community response. ~ Page 5 ~

6 November st BARCO meeting at Zimmers to presented general idea. Set monthly meeting date and goals to contact other dog park committees, develop a community survey, and search possible locations. December 2011 Began visiting other dog parks to investigate designs. January 2012 Began having regular monthly meetings at Zimmers Pets. Presented Dog Park idea to Boyertown Park & Rec Board to determine interest. Committee was very receptive and recommended us to present at February Borough Counsel. Began community survey and spreading information to community about project. February 2012 Voted on group organization including officers and committee chairs. Began virtual petition and physical petition to circulate to show community support for project (currently at ~250 signatures as of 9/11/12) Presented idea to Borough Council Meeting who requested that we proceed to gather more information and form a plan to present. Held contest for BASH Sr High Art Students for BARCO Logo design. March BARCO Presidents of Reservoir Dog Park in Phoenixville, and Perkasie Dog Park both attended to give us input on the steps we need to take and to answer questions. April 2012 Received donations from board members for Logo winner Prizes. Chose winners and handed out award at BASH. Held organization committee meeting to decide rules of park to be voted on at May meeting. First public appearance at Earth Day with much public interest. Ordered first set of official t-shirts to sell. Walked available acre of land with surveyor and received very positive feedback for the use of the land for a dog park. May 2012 Filed Articles of Incorporation with the state for $125. Approved dog park rules and regulations (see Addendum C). Planned for summer minor funding events. Opened BARCO bank account at National Penn Bank. July 2012 Received survey estimate at ~$9,000. Got second opinion estimate at ~$1,000. Holding off on approval until this step becomes necessary. Received Articles of Incorporation from the state with entity number (see Addendum E) August 2012 Met with 1st fencing company at site to get estimate. Reviewed and began draft of Bylaws to be typed up and reviewed with attorney in September. Manned tables at Fun Days & Dog Days Approximately $700 in donations to date. September 2012 Held Business Plan Meeting. Fencing estimate came in at around $25,000. Getting 2nd opinions. Attended YIP N Dip. 2nd order of t-shirts to be sold on web, at Zimmers and Joe Paws Bakery. Filed fictitious name with State for $70. Bylaws to be voted in during October general meeting. IV. ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURES A. Board Members: There will be 4 officers: President, Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretary along with no more than 16 additional board members voted into 3 year ~ Page 6 ~

7 staggered term to establish stable leadership. This may be altered as needed. A liability insurance policy will be in force for the BARCO Board of Directors by the date of ground breaking. B. Committees: All functions are assigned to one of four general committee s: Promotions Committee, Design Committee, Funding Committee, and Organizations Committee with at least one chairperson to head each. C. Volunteers: We continuously receive numerous requests via , phone calls and website volunteer form submissions from people who would like to assist in various functions of BARCO. We have several volunteers who head up our BARCO Task Force and are a vital piece to this structure. This Task Force will continue to play a major role in the implantation of this Business Plan and the ongoing success of our group and the dog park. D. Memberships: Once BARCO breaks ground on the park we will begin registering members for a specified fee to be determined. The park will be member access only. The cost of membership will go towards regular maintenance costs. V. SITE LOCATION & PHYSICAL DESIGN A. Site Location: The positioning of the off-leash area on the particular site of Boyertown Community Park is to minimize soil disturbance and maximize the benefits of the natural topography while providing a safe and accessible recreation area. The offleash area will have two separate fenced in areas: ~.3 acre for small dogs and ~.7 acre for large dogs. The existing area is not currently used for any other community purpose at this time and regular used of this neglected area may deter many negative issues such as vandalism, etc. B. Layout: The proposed BARCO Dog Park will include approximately 1 acre of fenced in area in the back of the Boyertown Community Park located on 416 S Monroe St. in Boyertown, PA. BARCO developed the design for the off-leash area through extensive research on existing dog parks, consultation with certified dog trainers, landscape architects, distant and local municipalities, and advisement from numerous other dog and landscaping experts. (See Appendix B for a rough draft of the park layout.) C. Ground Cover: Utilizing the existing grass mixture in the wooded area will provide a stronger base for the off-leash areas. Additionally, this minimizes soil disturbance and cost. Dog approved wood chips could be added as necessary to maintain overused areas. Additions of other materials will be considered if necessary. The off-leash areas will be ADA accessible. A hardscape walkway and lobby area will ensure safe access to and from the current parking area to the off-leash areas. D. Amenities: waste bags and covered containers for waste disposal, benches, trees and shrubs for screening and shade, a lobby area with an informational kiosk/bulletin board. Picnic Tables will be provided for use in the lobby area during Phase II. Play structures and agility equipment are to be added in Phase III as funds are available or through in kind donation. ~ Page 7 ~

8 E. Fencing: The entire off-leash area will be enclosed with 6 foot, top and bottom rail, commercial grade fence. A coded access system will be utilized to ensure safety for all participants and to maintain the quality of the park. Each fenced in area is designed with a separate double gated entrance. Approximately 1250 linear feet of 6 foot high commercial grade fence will be installed. Fencing is to be powder coated (color to be determined) 9 gauge. Posts, rails, and caps will be galvanized commercial grade. Sizes of these posts rails and caps will be decided upon recommendation at a later date. The fence line will be trenched, filled with stone and covered with macadam. This will minimize maintenance around the fence line. F. Gates: 5-4 ft gates (2 for each double-gated entry and one for the main entrance) 2-10 ft maintenance gates (2-5 ft gates for both small and large dog areas) G. Access system: Coded access system will be installed on the main entrance gate. Maintenance gates will be padlocked to be used by authorized persons only. H. Oops Stations: Waste disposal bags will be available for hygienic and safety purposes. BARCO would like to also offer to raise the funds during Phase II to provide Oops Stations to the current paved walking path installed by the Rotary Club as well. Biodegradable bags will be used if funds allow. I. Garbage cans: Waste receptacles will be positioned next to the Oops stations, at the entrance of the off-leash area and at the parking lot for members convenience. J. Information kiosk & Lobby Area: To ensure ADA compliance, durability and safety, the lobby will be constructed of concrete with donation bricks and pavers for aesthetic enhancement. In the lobby area there will be a pavilion style shade structure to serve as rain cover that will possibly extend on each side to provide a small portion of shaded area to each the large and small dog park areas. The pavilion will provide an area for the educational kiosk and patron board. Borough policies and codes will be posted as well as specific dog park rules. The kiosk will also be used to share community events and educational information. A central complaint # will be posted. K. Excavation: Our goal is to disturb the soil as little as possible; however, some soil will be moved to trench for fencing, to prepare for power and water lines and for the lobby. BARCO will comply with all required excavation regulations. L. Power: Use of the off-leash area will adhere to normal Borough park hours and therefore no extensive lighting will be required. Power may be needed for the entry system if installed as part of Phase III and can be added at a later date. Power may be useful for future events to be held at the park. M. Walkway: The walkway will go from the parking area up to the Entrance area and will follow ADA guidelines. N. Benches: Seating areas for visitors are not required to begin using the off-leash area, Therefore, benches are included in Phase II. Additional benches may be added in Phase III as desired and funding and sponsorships permit. ~ Page 8 ~

9 O. Parking: The current parking lot is adequate at this time. A designated handicapped parking space will be assigned as required by ADA regulation. Improvements will be made as deemed necessary. P. Water Fountains/Water Lines: Initially users will carry in water for their dog s refreshment. Running a water line will be part of Phase II and adding the Water fountains for dogs and humans will be an added in Phase III, as funding allows. If funding is available in Phase I, this will be completed at that time. Details of cost of usage will be negotiated with Boyertown Borough. Q. Trees & Shrubs: The proposed site has many trees especially in the large dog area. Our goal is to minimize any effect on existing trees and remove only those as required for safety or design regulation. Additional trees will be added to enhance the area as needed (especially the small dog area) and provide screening and shade. Trees and shrubs have been offered for use from the Tree Committee of BBB. Areas of shrubs will be planted to provide aesthetic value and screen for the front of the fenced in areas. Shrubs will also be added along the exterior perimeter of the park for noise abatement. R. Agility Equipment: We have investigated the desire of potential users and the cost, safety, and maintenance of adding agility and play equipment. Our research suggests that this is a highly desired amenity and will be added to Phase III as funding allows. VI. PARK ADMINISTRATION A. Safety, Rules, & Regulation SAFTEY: Signs - At Your Own Risk Signs will be posted at the dog park site. Liability Waivers - Members will sign a Liability Waiver when registering for membership. Orientation Attending an orientation will be a requirement of registering for membership to educate members on proper dog park etiquette and safety. Double gated entrance Separate double-gated entrances to both small and large dog areas will serve as a transition area where dogs will be unleashed/leashed upon entrance or exit of the off-leash areas. These are a well know safety feature used in most dog parks. Board of Directors All board members will be required to have a clean criminal background check as a safety precaution. RULES: Posted - Approved rules will be clearly posted on signs at the dog park site and on BARCO s website Acknowledged - Members will acknowledge that they have read, understand, and will abide by these approved rules when filling out their registration packet. Borough Approved - BARCO will work with the Park and Recreation Board and the Borough to finalize rules. ~ Page 9 ~

10 Precedent - Because off-leash areas have been in use by other communities for many years, there are clear precedents and recommendations on rules best practices, which have taken into consideration when BARCO established our current rules & regulations. (see Addendum C) Enforced - BARCO reserves the right to terminate any person s membership if they refuse to adhere to the rules, in which case there would be no refund of fees. REGULATIONS: Shots & License To ensure the adherence to state regulation and to promote responsible dog ownership, proof of rabies vaccination and state dog license will be required at time of registration. Rabies tag is to be worn on dog at all times while in the park and available to be inspected if requested at any time. Both will be updated as needed at each yearly registration period. Alteration All dogs that will be registered for the dog park will be required to be altered (spayed or neutered). In the case young dogs, this will be required for the registration following the date the dog turns 6 months old. B. Noise Abatement Non-Residential Location The site selected is a non-residential and rarely used section of the park. This area is ideal as it is adequately distant from any other existing park amenities to minimize conflict with other park activities and events. Natural Sound Barrier - Bushes and shrubbery will be planted on the exterior perimeter of the fence to help absorb sound. Socialization Benefits Typically after a short adjustment period, the socialization of dogs leads to less barking both at the park and at home. Enforcement of Rules Upon registration each member agrees to remove any unruly, overly aggressive, or excessively barking dogs from the park immediately. Additionally these rules will be enforced through other members reporting to a central complaint line to be regularly monitored by BARCO volunteers. Daylight Hours The dog park will adhere to regular park hours and thus will not be an issue to any neighboring residents after normal park closing. C. Maintenance WASTE CONTROL Daily Owners will be required to clean up after their own dogs Weekly As needed, but at least weekly, a BARCO volunteer will gather all waste bags for Borough pick up at site designated by Borough. GROUND MAINTENANCE Ongoing - The dog park grounds will be maintained in an acceptable manor by BARCO volunteers including lawn mowing and/or snow removal as needed. ~ Page 10 ~

11 FENCES AND OTHER STRUCTURES Weekly Damage Checks Weekly BARCO volunteer will routine damage check while removing trash and report any damage found to BARCO. Maintenance Fund A Maintenance Fund will be established in Phase I to be used to address repairs as necessary. MONTHLY WORK DAY One Saturday each month will be designated as a Monthly BARCO Work Day during which volunteers will gather to work as a community to do routine chores as needed for proper ongoing maintenance of the park (This example has been extremely successful for Reservoir Park in Phoenixville which has been in operation approximately 8 years. ROUTINE POLICING VISITS BARCO VOLUNTEERS Rules will be enforced by BARCO volunteers having a rotating scheduled visit to the park during high usage times on an ongoing basis. D. Dispute Resolutions MINOR Example: owner not picking up after his/her dogs waste, etc. Protocol: Incident should be called into the posted complaint line or to the complaints address. A BARCO Officer will check these messages on a designated regular basis. MAJOR Example: Dog Bites, etc. Protocol: Contact appropriate authorities such as *911 or police VII. PROJECT BUDGET Following is an illustration of our project budget. The costs included are estimates based on our research of materials and vendors. We plan to build the off-leash area in 3 phases. We will need approximately $36,000 to begin Phase I, which includes the infrastructure of the large and small dog areas, entry system, walkway, lobby floor, and handicapped parking space. An additional amount of money will be set aside during Phase II to begin a maintenance account for ongoing fees as well as repairs. Phase II includes additional features that the Board feels are needed items for the success of the park. Phase III includes additional amenities to enhance the park. ~ Page 11 ~

12 A. Expenses: PHASE I Basic Necessities Fencing and labor $20,000 Access system cost and labor $5,000 8 Oops stations (@ $162 Each - including 4 for walking path) $ Weather resistant garbage cans w/lids (@ $ 150 Each) $600 Design, survey, excavation, and permits $5,000 Concrete lobby, Walkway & Handicapped Parking Spot $3,000 Signage $700 TOTAL ESTIMATED PHASE I FUNDS NEEDED $35,600 PHASE II Desired Amenities 8 Benches (@ $370 each) $3,000 Pavilion over Lobby $8,000 2 ADA Picnic Tables (@ $958 each) $2,000 Water Line $12,000 Bulletin Board $1,200 Bushes and Trees $2,000 Storage Shed $500 Maintenance Fund $1,000 TOTAL ESTIMATED PHASE II FUNDS NEEDED $29,700 ~ Page 12 ~

13 PHASE III Future Enhancements 2 Dog Leash Holders in lobby (2 $340 each) $680 Flower Garden at Front of Park $1,000 Boyertown Bear $1,000 2 Water Fountains for Humans & Dogs (@ $3,100 each) $6,200 Agility Equipment $800 Video Surveillance Camera TBD Power Outlets $12,000 Lighting Doggie Wash Area TBD TBD Other aesthetic enhancements TOTAL ESTIMATED PHASE III FUNDS NEEDED $ TBD B. Fundraising: BARCO has an active fund raising committee led by dedicated board members. Terri Geary from the YMCA has been providing her expertise pro bono. The committee is prepared to raise all of the funds for the park establishment. BARCO has risen over $600 to date, through our local small events that we have attended. We have set a goal of $50,000 for our Phase I campaign and strongly believe that this is attainable. We have received interest from potential donors who will be willing to give larger amounts once we unveil the actual design and plans for the off-leash area. Our fund raising plan is a well-rounded strategy that includes the following main areas: Corporate Funding Campaign Projected PHASE I Revenue: $20,000 (Including Naming and Recognition Opportunities) Our corporate funding campaign will be targeting approximately 200 local businesses through a series of letters, phone calls, and visits and is anticipated to raise at least $20,000. BARCO has received inquiries from potential donors interested in naming opportunities and making major gifts to the park. We have identified naming and recognition opportunities to suit various levels of giving. We will work collaboratively with the Borough and the Park and Recreation Board to draw up donor agreements when accepting significant donations. All signs and recognition plaques will be durable, low maintenance and discrete, and will follow a consistent theme of the off-leash area and the Borough park system. ~ Page 13 ~

14 Major Community Events Projected PHASE I Revenue: $2,000 These would be larger events sponsored by BARCO or BARCO along with other partnering organizations. Examples include Coach Purse Bingo, Boyertown Dog Walk, Barktoberfest, Doggie Socials, Beef N Beers, Restaurant Coop Funding Campaigns, Doggie Show with Fashion show and voting on Best s. These events are in the process of being planned and finalized through our fundraising committee Minor Community Events Projected PHASE I Revenue: $1,000 These are events where BARCO has a table and informs the community of our Dog Park Project, has small fundraising abilities, shares updates, educates community members on responsible dog ownership and participates in existing community events. Past fund raising events have been safe, enjoyable and supported by the community. Events have targeted different populations, such as families with children, adults, teens, dog enthusiasts and seniors. Examples include Fun Days, EarthDay, Dog Days, Yip N Dip, etc. Membership Dues Projected PHASE I Revenue: $5,000 There will be small yearly dues paid by members to gain coded access to the park. These funds will help offset costs of maintaining the park fences, ground wear, damaged amenities, and any other required maintenance and will be set aside in a separate maintenance fund once the park is prepared to open. Brick Campaign Projected PHASE I Revenue: $5,000 Our brick campaign will include two options: Sizes and prices are in the process of being determined. As there is no local pet cemetery, and no other dog parks serving our community, we anticipate the brick campaign to be a popular way dog owners will choose to honor their pets and feel pride in the park. In-kind Donations Projected Phase I Revenue: $2,000 BARCO has received interest from several businesses and individuals, in making inkind donations once the official plans for the off-leash have been unveiled. We will seek in-kind donations for the excavation, concrete, paving, water line and electric along with labor and any other opportunities as they arise. Grants Projected Phase I Revenue: $15,000 There are several grant opportunities that we have identified and are currently exploring. Many other dog parks have acquired similar grant to assist with funding. These grants will be made know as we are able to identify which BARCO will be able to qualify and apply for. TOTAL PHASE I FUNDRAISING GOAL: $50,000 ~ Page 14 ~

15 VIII. FUTURE PLANNING AND SUPPORT A. Ongoing Funding Annual Fundraising Campaigns - to provide for ongoing enhancements to the Park and to promote responsible dog ownership in our community. Yearly Membership Dues Memberships will renew annually each January and will be prorated for the year of registration. Sales of Products T-shirts, Dog bandanas, and other products will continue to be sold at local businesses, on the website, and at minor and major events. B. Ongoing Park and Member Management Meetings: BARCO will continue to hold Board and Committee meetings at least quarterley. Maintenance: BARCO will be in charge of routine maintenance of the park Memberships: BARCO will continue to be responsible for membership registrations, renewals, and dues. Registration forms will be distributed to potential members through: Local Businesses Website Download Attached to Monthly enews At the information Kiosk in the lobby of the dog park. Communications: A monthly newsletter will continue to be sent via (postal mail will be considered based on needs) to our contact list. This along with the BARCO website and facebook page will serve as the main forms of communication to members. Other forms of communications such as blogs and regular mailings may be added as needed or desired. Volunteer opportunities will be posted and regularly updated. All registrants will be invited to get involved. Coordination with Boyertown Borough - Additionally, BARCO has committed volunteers who will support the Borough Park and Recreation Department. Community Involvement - BARCO will also reach out to community groups such as the Boy and Girl Scouts of America, and local school and service groups, for additional partnerships. The lines of communication will remain open between the Borough, BARCO and the community to promptly address any issues or concerns. IX. CONCLUSION BARCO Dog Park has worked diligently to raise public awareness about the benefits of a community dog park, build relationships with area businesses and cooperate with the Boyertown Borough. WE are confident that a safe, high quality off-leash area can be constructed at Boyertown Community Park, through privately raised funds. We intend to create an area that will enhance the Borough s park system and will be a source of enjoyment and pride for the community. We look forward to working with Boyertown Borough to make this concept a reality. ~ Page 15 ~

16 ADDENDUM A BARCO s Board of Directors As voted in at our General Meeting February 2012 President, Vicki Marsh of Boyertown, PA Associate Agent and Office Manager at Davidheiser Insurance and Financial Services in Boyertown, PA. Established BARCO in October of Vice President, Theresa Geary of Boyertown, PA CEO at YMCA of Boyertown, PA. On the Board of YMCA and BBB and United Way. Secretary, Debbie Smith of Boyertown, PA Works at Douglas A. Haring and Company in Reading, PA Treasurer, Samuel Zimmer of Boyertown, PA Manager of Zimmers Pets in Boyertown PA and Owner of ANIMO Products, wholesale pet company recently established. Also on several BBB committees. Director, GiGi Malinchak of Boyertown, PA Owner of GiGi s at Home Pet Care and member of Building a Better Boyertown, Chair of Dog Days Committee for BBB as well as Chair of Committee for Unity Walk in Boyertown. Director, Charlene Townsend of Boyertown, PA Chair of BARCO s Organizations Committee - Owner of Charlene s Pets in Skippack, PA Director, Roberta Pehlman of Boyertown, PA Chair of BARCO s Funding Committee - Instructor at MONTCO and RACC Director, Jacqueline Feather of Pottstown, PA Employed at VANGUARD, Pottstown, PA Asst Chair of BARCO s Funding Committee Director, Kristen Marci of Pottstown, PA Employed at Aetna Healthcare Dedicated dog Advocate Director, Kristi Heydt of Boyertown, PA ATF Program Specialist at Helping Hands in Bechtelsville, PA Director, Thomas Marsh of Boyertown, PA Driver at Greater Berks Food Bank in Reading, PA ~ Page 17 ~

17 ADDENDUM B Rough Draft of BARCO Park Design Large Dog Area Double Gated Entrance Double Gated Entrance Small Dog Area 75 Maintenance Gate Maintenance Gate ADA Accessible Walkway to Parking Gates Walkway to Parking lot Lobby Approximate Sq Ft ~ 42,000 Approximate Linear Feet of Fencing ~ 1,250 ~ Page 18 ~

18 ADDENDUM C Boyertown Dog Park Rules & Regulations As Approved by BARCO Board of Directors on To be amended as necessary Hours: Dawn to Dusk Human Height Restriction (Children): Children under the age of 16 must adhere to the height restrictions and be accompanied by an adult within arm s reach. Big Dog Yard: Child must be over 40 Small Dog Yard: Child must be over 33 This area is for DOG PLAY, not a KIDS park GENERAL RULES 1. All dogs entering this park must wear a collar, displaying their current rabies tag and license. Pronged, pinch, choker, electric or spiked collars are prohibited in this dog park. 2. No baby strollers permitted inside park. 3. Puppies must be at least four (4) months old and be fully vaccinated. 4. Pennsylvania Dog Laws state that dog owners or custodians are responsible and legally liable for the acts and conduct of their dog at all times. Dogs are personal property. You are responsible for any damage caused by your dog. 5. Dogs with a known history of aggressive behavior are prohibited. If your dog shows signs of aggression toward people or other dogs, it must be removed from the park immediately. 6. Dogs must be kept on a leash until inside the dog park. Unleash your dog immediately upon entering the dog park and carry a leash at all times for safety. 7. Leaving dogs unattended in the park is prohibited. Always keep your dog in sight and under voice control to monitor behavior. 8. No smoking in dog areas. 9. Stop your dog from digging and fill any holes. 10. All dogs over the age of 8 months must be spayed/neutered. 11. No food (Canine or Human) or glass containers allowed in dog play areas. 12. No more than two dogs per dog owner/handler are permitted. One dog per hand. If you want to bring your third dog, bring another adult to help you. 13. Excessive barking is highly discouraged, particularly during early morning hours. 14. Always clean up after your dog. Pick up dog waste right away and put in garbage cans provided. Keeping the park clean will ensure it will stay open. 15. Acceptable toys to bring to Dog Park are Frisbee and Tennis ball, no rawhide or chew toys at all, no plush toys. ~ Page 19 ~

19 ADDENDUM D Articles of Incorporation for Boyertown Area Responsible Canine Owners, llc. ~ Page 20 ~

20 ADDENDUM E NonProfit Registration Certificate for Boyertown Area Responsible Canine Owners, llc. ~ Page 20 ~