by JENNIFER BRENNOCK
Special to the Islands’ Sounder
Despite the lack of a signed agreement with FAA regarding the site’s recreational use, construction of a 10×12-foot shelter for the Eastsound Off-Leash Dog Park began last week.
Because the FAA has not yet agreed to this specific use of the Port of Orcas property, the design of the shelter was modified to make it completely removable if necessary.
“I think we can say with some assurances to people that it could be moved in a day, should that need to happen at some point,” Jeff Hanson of the Eastsound Off-Leash Dog Park said.
Bent Nails Construction has begun building already and the roof is expected to rise this week. The company is donating the labor and materials for the project.
“It’s about a week and half of work for three people, I’d guess” Ken Katz of Bent Nails Construction said.
The dog park is located on a gentle slope of an unused corner of Port of Orcas property. The shelter is intended to provide sunshade in the summer and wind protection in the winter for dog owners.
Visitors to the dog park are excited to see the shelter erected.
“We’re thrilled,” Erin McCarthy of Eastsound said, who brought her dog, Bo Taters, to exercise Wednesday. “I think the off-leash area has done just as much for the people. Some people are lonely.”
Jack Titus of Eastsound, owner of Binka, said of the shelter’s benefits, “We can bring the dogs when it’s stormy and survive.”
Brieanna of Eastsound brings her dog, Luna, to the off-leash area as often as four times a week. “I’m just glad we’re staying here,” she said.
The next Port Commission meeting is May 14 at 7 p.m. at the Port of Orcas. There will be a public comment opportunity.
In other news, three Port of Orcas Commission seats will be up for election this year. Commissioners are elected in November and begin their service in January. Commissioners serve four-year terms.
Port of Orcas Manager Beatrice vonTobel said the assets needed to be a commissioner are good listening skills and an interest in the viability of the airport.
“They create policy and oversee the work that the port does. As a commissioner, you are serving the greater good of the public,” vonTobel said.
Commissioners Garth Eimers, Ulanah McCoy, and Steve Hopkins will complete their current terms this year. McCoy will not be running for reelection after serving on the commission for eight years.
Those interested in running for the Port of Orcas Commission should contact the elections office of San Juan County by late June to be included in the voter’s pamphlet.
