Long Beach weighs allowing dogs on the beach during offseason

One resident’s remarks drew boos from some in attendance

A proposal to allow dogs on Long Beach’s beaches during the offseason sparked a little bit of a dogfight at a recent City Council meeting.

Residents on Oct. 20 spoke for and against the proposed pilot program, with supporters submitting a petition bearing more than 1,900 names.

No vote was taken, and the council is scheduled to revisit the issue Wednesday, Nov. 4.

“Most of the public comments at the meeting were supportive of the idea. We understand there are strong opinions on both sides of this issue, for and against, and we want to hear from our residents so we can make a decision in the best interest of the City,” City Manager Dan Creighton said.

Dogs are currently prohibited on the city’s beaches, and owners who violate the rule face fines ranging from $50 to $100.

Supporters suggested requiring owners to purchase a permit or pass, with the revenue helping cover the cost of patrols to enforce the rules.

Barbara Dillion, a Long Beach resident, argued that dogs should be allowed during the quieter months, with rules in place to address cleanup.

“I love dogs. I love this beach. I can’t understand any reason why we wouldn’t allow dogs on the beach at least on the off season,” she said.

Others raised concerns about sanitation and enforcement.

Dr. Daniel Moran called the proposal “a public health issue if we’re going to have fecal matter all over the beach and the boardwalk. It’s already all over the sidewalks.”

His remarks drew boos from some in attendance.

Moran urged the council “to enforce the restrictions already in place and not weaken them.”

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Top: A man sunbathes on Wednesday, May 27, 2020, in Long Beach. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer)