Suggests fee to fund ‘Poo Crew’

The vast majority of Bellingham dog owners are very responsible with their dogs and are quick to pick up after them when they “do their duty,” especially on our city’s walking trails.

There are exceptions, but I believe most of them are unintentional, (i.e., the owner was unaware his/her dog had left a present). Regardless the circumstances, the result is the same; a pile is left on a public walkway. Before long, someone steps in the poo and spreads it far and wide. Or a young mother’s stroller wheel glides through it and helps make her day a little more special. Once the mess becomes smashed and smeared, the clean-up becomes challenging.

As a solution, I propose the Bellingham Parks Department creates a one-person “Poo Crew” that makes daily rounds clearing the doo-doo messes from city’s sidewalks and trails. He/she would have an electric powered cart equipped with scoops, plastic bags, disposal cans and a portable water tank with a jet spray nozzle to assist in the tough jobs.

Funds for the “Poo Crew” could be collected as part of the pet licensing fees. If Bellingham had 10,000 licensed dogs, a $10-a-year fee would provide $100,000 a year; more than enough to fund a “Poo Crew.” Some dog owners won’t appreciate the increased dog license fee, but it must be considered part of the responsibility that comes with dog ownership inside the city.

What do you say, City Council?

This story was originally published November 19, 2015 at 4:01 PM with the headline "Suggests fee to fund ‘Poo Crew’."