I am writing to express my concern regarding several important issues that require the attention of the South Palm Beach Town Council.
One such issue is the use of sidewalks by bikes and electric bikes, which has already resulted in accidents. Additionally, there is a lack of pedestrian crossings in our town. These are two critical matters that pedestrians and dog owners face every day and should be prioritized on the council’s agenda.
While I understand the intention behind the recent resolution passed by the council to exclude dogs from town property due to some residents failing to clean up after their pets, I believe that addressing these safety concerns should take precedence.
Furthermore, as a result of this resolution, the dog station adjacent to the Intracoastal has been removed. This means that dog owners who are residents of South Palm Beach are now forced to walk to the adjacent town if they want to enjoy the Intracoastal. This restriction not only inconveniences responsible dog owners but also creates an unwelcoming environment for dogs in our community.
I would like to propose an alternative solution. Instead of implementing additional resolutions, I suggest installing cameras on town property to identify and fine irresponsible dog owners, as established by Ordinance 304 already in the books. This targeted approach would address the issue without penalizing responsible dog owners who follow the rules.
I believe that this approach would receive widespread support from both responsible dog owners and other members of our community.
It is important to note that over 80% of dog owners consider their pets as part of their family, and over 70% of the younger affluent generation owns dogs. As a community, we should strive to be dog-friendly and accommodate the needs of responsible dog owners.
Therefore, I kindly request that the plans for the new Town Hall include a designated dog-friendly area complete with cameras to ensure compliance with regulations.
On behalf of Cody, Morgan, Max, Bella, Teddy, Bandit, Lili, Riley, Peanut, Schultz and many other responsible dogs in South Palm Beach, I urge you to consider these suggestions and work toward creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment for our furry friends.
Additionally, I would like to emphasize that addressing safety concerns related to bike usage on sidewalks and pedestrian crossings should be given priority. These issues affect not only pedestrians, but also all residents and visitors in our town. By focusing on these matters, we can ensure a safer environment for everyone.
Rafael Pineiro
South Palm Beach
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