City Council Member Dogs New Park

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - Memphis City councilwoman Barbara Swearengen-Ware had tough criticism for the city dog park that was opened two weeks ago.

The park was opened behind the Memphis City Schools administrative building as a test park to see how Memphians would use it, and if there would be a need for another larger park.

At Tuesday's city council meeting, Swearengen-Ware had doubts about who the park really benefits and why the city was investing money in it.

"I just think we have other priorities and that dog owners should make provisions for their own dogs to play wherever they want them to play, and that should not be an initiative that the city tax payers have to pay for."

The park cost the city $14,000, with $10,000 of that for fencing that could be reused if the dog park idea doesn't work.