Where would Elgin put a dog park?

Elgin leaders are taking a closer look at whether the city needs a dog park, and if so, exactly where one should be established.

The city's Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Tuesday night opted to form a committee to evaluate a proposal to establish a dog park at the 3.45-acre Central Park off Route 31 on the city's near west side.

If a dog park is not workable there, the committee will look at other locations.

Some residents near Central Park said they just found out about the proposal and were worried about potential noise.

"It's not a park that is high volume in terms of use, but it is used regularly," said George Doscher, a neighbor appointed to the committee. "I don't see it the site being suitable for a dog park."

The park does not have playground equipment and has an overlook of the Fox River, but is used for winter sledding. No time frame has been set for the committee to meet or make a recommendation; the city council has the final vote.

"It was brought to use as an idea. It's our job to discuss it and that's what we're doing," said Mike Bailey, member of the advisory board.

Charlene Sligting, president of the South West Area Neighbors, or SWAN, which put forth the concept in late August to better utilize the park, was encouraged by the discussion.

"We are excited that the proposal has created discussion and heightened awareness regarding the need for dog parks throughout the greater Elgin area," she said.

The proposal includes: separate fenced areas for large dogs and smaller dogs up to 14 inches tall at the shoulder and/or under 30 pounds; an agility area; an on-leash area; children's area; picnic area; and other "green" features.

Under the plan, tags must be purchased at the city for a $30 fee; owners must show their pets are up to date on shots, disease-free and neutered.