Polls
| 51 years old with Parkinson's Disease |
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Dear Mayor Hannemann, I am writing you regarding the proposed off leash dog park at the Ala Wai Community Park. In recent months I have become acquainted with many of the members of the Ala Wai K-9 Playground Association and more importantly my 1 year old Sheltie has made a multitude of small dog playmates. I am 51 years old with Parkinson's Disease and my visits to the dog park have been beneficial for me as well as my dog. Parkinson's disease is a disease that tends to isolate people. This, in addition to losing my husband last July to a heart attack, while I was in the hospital having deep brain stimulation surgery, has left a void in my life. The visits to the dog park have helped to fill that void by providing an opportunity to interact with others having disabilities, as well as other pet owners. The A.W, K-9 Playground Assoc. began lobbying in 2005 for a much needed permanent enclosed off -leash dog park and were given approval for a 32,000 sq.ft.area on the soccer/softball field in 2006. Unfortunately, in 2006, heavy rains damaged the sewer system in Waikiki resulting in the Emergency Beach Walk Project. The construction company involved needed to store their equipment and supplies in the area that had been designated for the dog park. Now the city is proposing a permanent sewer replacement project that will take anywhere from 30 mths to 5 years. A permanent facility is very much needed by the members of this community. Given the large number of condominiums in the area and the number of dogs and dog owners that presently meet in the afternoons it would be extremely well used. A similar park was just opened in Hawaii Kai and has been very successful. The Ala Wai K-9 Association has raised funds and is willing to work with the Parks and Recreations Department to establish and manage the Off-leach dog park. 5 years is a long time to wait for a permanent facility. It is not my habit to write to our busy government offiials but I am asking for your help. As Mayor of the City of Honolulu, I would appreciate your cooperation and help in expediting a permanent resolution to this situation. Thank you for your time, Aloha, Carol Okasaki |
Our Best Friends
