WHEREAS dogs in the unleased area of Sherwood Park continue to run out of control;

AND WHEREAS unleashed dogs are causing long-term damage to the undergrowth of the forest area;

AND WHEREAS unleashed dogs frequently run onto private property, destroying gardens and frightening residents, including young children;

AND WHEREAS professional dog walkers, who walk up to a dozen dogs each, are increasing users of the park;

AND WHEREAS many local residents no longer use their neighbourhood park, preferring to go elsewhere so as to avoid unleashed dogs;

AND WHEREAS there have been many reports from joggers of menacing dogs, and at least one biting incident that resulted in a muzzling order;

AND WHEREAS there is increased public anxiety about uncontrolled dogs due to reports in the media about vicious attack;

AND WHEREAS local residents who have volunteered many hours planting new trees, flowers and shrubs are discouraged because unleased dogs have destroyed much of their work;

AND WHEREAS measures taken last year to protect the forest undergrowth have resulted in more damage to unprotected areas;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the evaluation of the unleashed dog area in Sherwood Park scheduled for September 1998 be commenced immediately.