June 16, 2005

The City Councilors of Geneva NY decided Wednesday not to place into action an ordinance banning dogs in the city's parks, playgrounds and all public land.

Geneva,NY,USA

The proposal was shot down in an eight to one vote, of which 6th Ward Councilor John Greco was the only person to vote for it.

“I just want to see clean parks and playgrounds,” he said.

Before his vote, Greco, who proposed the idea, said he’s not against dogs and did not want to punish dog owners.

Grove Street resident Virginia Fiero said the ordinance would be unfair to responsible dog owners.

Several councilors said they understand the need to do something about the problem of owners not picking up the messes from their dogs and the number of dogs running around without leaches has grown, but they argue those problems can be solved by enforcing current leash and litter laws.

Third Ward Councilor Jan Nyrop said that the idea “was brilliant on John’s part” because it got people talking about the problems and that they would be more aware of their responsibilities as pet owners.

Under the failed proposal someone found guilty of having their dog on public land or in city parks would have been fined $25 for the first offense, $50 for the second and $100 or up to 15 days in jail if caught at least twice in five years.