PHOTO BY INDIA KENNER / THE VILLAGE REPORTER
NEW PARK … Eddie Bohn (standing) explains the plan for the proposed dog park to the park board.
By: India Kenner
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
india@thevillagereporter.com
The Edgerton Park Board convened on Wednesday, December 10, at 5:30 p.m., with committee members Camie Hicks, Bill Swank, and Abby Witsman. Chris Sanchez was absent.
Also present were Amanda Knecht, Mayor Bob Day, Eddie Bohn, Scout leader Neil Imm, Village Council member Leslie VanAusdale, and several community members.
Karlee Collins, a junior at Edgerton High School and member of local Scouting America Troop 29, had Eddie Bohn present her ambitious Eagle Scout project to the Edgerton Park Board.
The project: constructing “The Bark Park,” Edgerton’s first dedicated public dog park, located east of the downtown water tower along the railroad tracks.
Collins, an avid dog lover, chose the project after the park board had previously discussed the need for a dog park but had no concrete plans.
“Edgerton has long valued family, friendship, and outdoor recreation,” Collins wrote in her donation letter.
“This park will give dogs and their owners a safe place to exercise, socialize, and build stronger neighborhood connections, while also giving travelers passing through town on U.S. 6 a convenient spot to stretch their legs.”
Key features of the proposed park:
-Fully fenced 5-ft heavy-duty chain-link enclosure (approx. 150 ft × 50 ft oval shape)
-Separate small-dog and large-dog areas planned for future phases
-Waste stations, benches, water access, and signage
-Double-gated entry for safety
A fencing quote from Strait-Line Fencing (Stryker, OH) came in at $8,920 (including a 10% non-profit discount) for materials and professional installation, with optional upgrades for concrete footers or bottom rails.
Collins is actively seeking monetary donations, in-kind contributions (materials/labor), and sponsorships (benches, signs, etc.). All donors will be recognized on a permanent sign at the park unless they prefer anonymity.
Her ultimate goal: have the park fully funded and under construction by spring 2026, with a grand opening targeted for Sunday, June 21, 2026.
To donate or learn more, contact Karlee Collins via Facebook/Message or mail checks payable to the Edgerton, Ohio Foundation (note “Dog Park Project” in the memo line).
A community-built dog park has been a long-requested amenity in Edgerton. The project received positive discussion at the meeting, moving Karlee’s vision closer to reality — and advancing her toward the Eagle Scout rank.
The park board meeting adjourned at 5:53 p.m. The next park board meeting will be scheduled in January.