WILDWOOD – ‘Dog days of summer’ will take on a new meaning for Wildwood. The Board of Commissioners approved an ordinance May 14 during their meeting allowing a dog beach on Poplar Avenue.
The original ordinance, introduced for first reading April 23, allowed dogs to run free within the area of the dog beach.
However, commissioners decided to amend this rule May 14 to state that dogs must remain on a leash at all times.
“We think we need to crawl before we can walk, and we understand that allowing the dogs to run totally free might be a little optimistic for the first year,” said Commissioner Peter Byron. “I’m not saying that’s going to be the future, but let’s just concentrate on this summer and see how this works.”
Before the vote, commissioners heard from several residents regarding the dog beach during the ordinance’s public hearing.
Lana Cupo of Juniper Avenue questioned the location of the dog beach.
“I feel Poplar Avenue is heavily populated,” said Cupo. “With Morey’s Piers, the traffic and the trash; if I were a dog owner, I would be concerned.”
Pat Berinson of Poplar Avenue brought up several concerns regarding enforcement, clean-up and location.
“We’re not going to attract the nice little old lady with a dog in a basket,” said Berinson. “We’re going to attract the teenagers with their pit bulls who are going to think it’s really cool to bring a dog to the beach.”
Mayor, commissioners and Ryan Troiano, who works with beach services, tried to alleviate concerns by assuring residents that a lot of details have been examined.
“We’re going to have crews that will be cleaning,” said Troiano. “We’re really going to make the beach a priority this year.”
“We have extra beach patrol this year,” said Commissioner Anthony Leonetti. “We will have police on the beach for the first time in I don’t know how many years.”
As for the location, according to Troiano, Wildwood Beach Captain Steve Socks made the recommendation for Poplar Avenue.
“Steve knows the spots where people congregate more than others and areas where they don’t really congregate,” said Troiano. “If there are other beaches available, we will address those issues.”
Others showed support for the dog beach, including Jack Morey.
“I see this as a great opportunity, but also as a great test year,” said Morey.
Chuck Schumann of Wildwood Crest, accompanied by his dog Duffy, stressed the family aspect of the dog beach.
“Many families, when they go on vacation, pick spots where they can go with their pets,” said Schumann. “Most dogs that travel with their families are very well-mannered.”
Lisa Sockriter of Bennett Avenue expressed interest in events that could come from the passage of the ordinance.
“This has drawn the interest of East Coast Surfing Association,” said Sockriter. “We’d like to come here and earn the city money by putting on an event.”
Sockriter’s pit bull, Bennett, is a champion trick dog and enjoys surfing.
According to Ryan Troiano, while he understands the pros and cons, the dog beach is a part of a greater plan to generate revenue for the city.
“Through this beach plan we were able to do other events and generate revenue,” said Troiano. “There is an emphasis that we’ve put on the beach that we haven’t had in years and I think you’re going to see a big difference.”
The ordinance passed by a unanimous vote.
The ordinance states that dogs will be permitted in the bathing area of Poplar Avenue which will be designated by signage.
Dogs will be permitted on the boardwalk at the access ramps of Poplar Avenue and Magnolia Avenue to access the beach.
Owners will be responsible for cleaning their dog’s waste using a waste disposal bag or container, and disposing of that bag in a designated dog waste trash bin.
Beach Patrol will have the authority to eject any person or dog if deemed appropriate to protect the health, safety and welfare of other dog beach and/or beach patrons.
Violations of the ordinance could result in a fine up to $200 and/or a restriction from the dog beach.
The ordinance will take effect 20 days after May 14.
Troiano asked residents to contact Socks if they notice violations occurring.
“When we see it we enforce it, but we need help from residents who go to those beaches,” said Socks.
To contact Erin Haskell, email ehaskell@cmcherald.com.
