Don’t want taxes going to the dogs

I am writing in regard to the proposed dog park that will be shared by Elgin and Hoffman Estates.

I see that this will initially cost both towns a shared amount of $80,000. What is the cost for the additional staff to pick up the dog feces, mow the lawn, maintain fences, garbage cans, water bill, electric bill if lighted in the evenings, dog “toys” and other things to keep the area clean, as well as other expenditures that are unforeseen at this time? Those figures are not mentioned on your website, elginparksmasterplan.org/parks/survey/.

I am totally against this idea as I feel it is a complete waste of my taxpayer money. It is the responsibility of the pet owner to take care of his pet — not me or my tax dollars used for this plan because of the pet owner’s choice to have a pet.

I’m furious that this is even a consideration in these poor economic times — or even if the economy were fabulous, it’s a stupid idea. It’s sad when dogs come before people.

I’d rather get some tax dollars back instead of catering to dogs. Do you know how many math and science school textbooks could be purchased with $80,000? Or how many scholarships could be awarded to students?

What are you guys thinking? Just more dumbing down of society.

I hope this proposal fails. It is a total waste of taxpayer money. I don’t want my money “going to the dogs.”

Julie Belonger

Elgin