Kids and dogs in Evergreen Park,OG. Paul Goldfinger photo
By Moe Demby, staff reporter/photographer @Blogfinger. 2014 re-post.
In early May several Ocean Grove residents proposed opening a dog park in Ocean Grove to the Neptune Township Committee. The prepared proposal suggested that the park be placed in the open grass area at the intersection of Pennsylvania and Inskip Avenues, behind the sewer maintenance building.
Residents volunteered to care for the park and ensure park rules were followed; including monitoring all residents who utilized the park. The proposal suggested methods in which the park would cost the township little out of pocket expense. The Township Committee members were receptive to the idea of a dog run, including Mayor Brantley who stated that Ocean Grove was long overdue for a dog park. The Committee referred the proposal to the Camp Meeting Association for consideration.
About a week later, the same residents presented the proposal to the Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association COO J.P. Gradone. Mr. Gradone, a dog owner, was very appreciative of the proposal and stated that he would share the proposal with the CMA board.
On June 14, residents again met with Mr. Gradone to discuss the proposal for an Ocean Grove dog run. Mr. Gradone tinformed residents that after meeting with executive board members, the decision to deny the dog park proposal was unanimous. The reason given by the CMA was, “ It (the dog park) is not compatible with the Camp Meeting Association’s mission.”
It was made clear that the board was firm in its decision; despite the fact that over 175 residents of Ocean Grove backed the concept of a dog park in town. (Blogfinger on-line poll)
If you would like to contact the CMA regarding your disappointment over the decision, below is their contact information:
Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association
54 Pitman Avenue- PO Box 248
Ocean Grove, NJ 07756
Phone: 732-775-0035
Email: information@oceangrove.org
BAHA MEN. “Who Let the Dog’s Out?”