Tiffin Mayor Aaron Montz announced two donations to the Tiffin Parks Department, one of which could brings the city closer to opening a dog park at Hedges-Boyer Park.
Montz said the Tiffin Charitable Foundation has given $25,000 to the city, which is to fund changes to the lower level of the park, including moving the softball fields closer together, building a concession stand/restroom facility and grading the area where little league football is played. A portion of the funds also would be used to prepare space for a dog park where Dedrick Field is now.
Montz said after speaking with Parks Director Steve Dryfuse Thursday, the upgrades could be complete by next spring.
The best part is this is all through donations," Montz said. "A lot of organizations are coming through when the budget doesn't cooperate (which is good for the community)."
Amenities to the dog park are to be paid for through a private fundraising drive. Keith Hodkinson, chair of the Bark Park Citizens Committee, said the drive is to begin mid- to late this year, but funds already are coming in from other private groups.
Hodkinson said the dog park, which is to be "a destination point for a lot of people," could be completed before Fourth of July next year. He added the park is just as much for dogs as it is for people, pet owners or not, and will serve the community for multiple generations.
Hodkinson also thanked the foundation for their support of the projects.
"We are incredibly pleased by their giving," he said. "It proves the Tiffin Charitable Foundation is there for the right reasons."
Representatives from the Tiffin Charitable Foundation and Dryfuse could not be reached Thursday evening.
In another announcement, Montz said the Tiffin Moose has donated $2,500 for the Fourth of July fireworks display Wednesday at Hedges-Boyer.
Montz thanked the organization for its history of support for the city, and said he believes it could make the display one of Tiffin's finest.
