Next step is to determine a location

A dog park in Albert Lea came one step closer to reality Monday night at the Albert Lea City Council meeting.

The Albert Lea City Council unanimously approved Rotary Club President Sheila Schulz’s request for a dog park in Albert Lea.

Approval means the Albert Lea Parks and Recreation Department will work with the Rotary Club Dog Park Committee to recommend a location for the park to the City Council.

The council still needs to approve the location of a dog park.

Third Ward Councilor George Marin applauded the Rotary Club’s effort in the process.

“I think this would be a great asset for the community,” Marin said.

Schulz was happy with the board’s approval.

“Progress is good,” Schulz said. “The Rotary Club is excited to see the unanimous approval from City Council on moving forward with this project. We’re hoping the business community will support us in this endeavor.

“It’s progress for Albert Lea, and moving forward with progress is always a good thing.”

Possible sites identified for the dog park include behind Brookside Education Center, near the Blazing Star Landing, Eberhardt Park and Shoff Park.

The Albert Lea Parks and Recreation Advisory Board last month gave approval of the idea of bringing a dog park to Albert Lea.