Dog park

Well, it looks to me like there is one "development" in Whitefish that is pretty much making everybody happy — and then some.

I'm talking about the newly opened Hugh Rogers Dog Park. I personally haven't gone there yet with my dogs, as we are able to go up in the woods a lot for runs and walks, but I have gone there to check it out myself, and I sure like what I'm seeing.

I live out past the park, so I'm also driving by there a lot. When I go past there, it almost always makes me smile when I look over and see the dogs and their people.

I see young people, older people and kids. I see big dogs, little dogs, 'scruffy" dogs and purebreds, and what makes me smile is they all look like they're getting along, and they all certainly look like they're having a great time. I'm betting the people are too, and I'm thinking maybe new friendships are forming out there on that field, both human and dog-like.

Another thing that really made me smile was more than a few times, I've seen a person in a wheelchair who is now able to walk his or her dog, as there is a sidewalk, and it appears to be handicap-friendly. How great is that.

Kudos to the people who took their time to create such a great atmosphere and obviously one that was necessary. We don't all live where we can access a place where dogs can run free. It was great foresight, and I bet this park will get more use than maybe any other in Whitefish.

From what I've heard from some people I've talked with who frequent the park with their dogs, it sounds like there is respect amongst owners, and so far, dogs are getting along. That's my one concern, some type of dog fight, or an owner who may not be paying attention or take responsibility if they have an aggressive dog.

Hopefully, things will continue running smooth, dogs will keep catching those Frisbees and tennis balls, and people will interact with each other — it's all good. It warms my heart. Thank you to everyone involved in such a great project.

Paula Jones

Whitefish

Budget woes

My opinion, please. In one Whitefish Pilot, our mayor states raising rates on our utilities. In the next paper, our city council wants to arrange Main Street.

So I suggest these council members divide the amount. Pay for it themselves.

Some are struggling to make ends meet. This is my piece of wisdom.

A taxpayer making ends meet.

Lilly Westerlund

Whitefish