Parks & Playgrounds
4300 N Stone Mill Rd
- Case Date:
- 3/28/2025
To Whom It May Concern,
I’m writing to raise ongoing and serious concerns about safety at Ferguson Dog Park. As a local resident and dog owner, I want to be able to use this public space, but I and many others have avoided it due to recurring problems with aggressive dogs and irresponsible owners.
The park has unfortunately gained a reputation for being unsafe, especially in the large dog sections. Despite the park offering one section for small dogs and two for large dogs, the issue lies not in the layout but in the lack of enforcement when it comes to aggressive behavior. On multiple occasions, I’ve encountered people who knowingly bring aggressive, territorial dogs and allow them to instigate fights or intimidate other dogs. One woman even said to me, “Sorry, my dogs are just really aggressive,” without any acknowledgment that such dogs likely should not be in an off-leash public space.
While there are signs advising people to report aggressive dogs to Animal Control, this is a reactive measure. It doesn’t prevent the problem, it merely suggests action after something bad happens. That approach is not good enough in a setting where dogs and people are vulnerable to serious injury.
I urge the city to consider a more proactive and enforceable approach to managing the park, such as:
• Installing surveillance cameras with audio capabilities to capture incidents involving aggressive dogs. This would make it easier to identify repeat offenders and enforce fines, bans, or other penalties.
• Requiring owners to register their dogs for park access, with confirmation of vaccinations and agreement to behavioral rules.
• Posting clear behavioral guidelines with visible consequences for aggressive or dangerous behavior.
• Adding a reporting system with follow-up, so those who witness aggressive behavior can easily report it with time-stamped video or audio reference.
• Random patrols or staff check-ins, especially during peak hours.
Ferguson Dog Park has the potential to be a tremendous community asset, but right now, many responsible dog owners feel excluded due to fear for their dogs’ safety. I hope the city will take these concerns seriously and implement stronger, preventative measures to ensure a safer and more enjoyable environment for everyone.
Thank you for your time and attention. I would appreciate a response regarding what actions, if any, are being considered to address these issues.
Sincerely,
Michael May
8123601499
4260 E Bethel Ln. Bloomington, IN 47408
- Case Date:
- 3/27/2025
There is an encampment that is not continuously used. It was occupied in the spring of 2024 before the removal of the encampments and the bush hogging of the vegetation to increase sight lines along the B line. Then it became active again during the winter, but now it looks unoccupied again. It seems to be active on and off because the debris and the structure that forms a shelter still remains. Can the encampment be removed to prevent future occupancy of this area?
Nuisance Lights
2104 E Woodstock PL
- Case Date:
- 3/27/2025
Light trespass.
Exterior lights on the porch unshielded in violation of city code measurably affecting neighboring properties. This is a known issue documented by city site visit measuring light trespass. Currently lights are left on 24/7.
Potholes, Other Street Repair
1147 E Rogers Rd
- Case Date:
- 3/27/2025
Pothole after circle heading up hill
Potholes, Other Street Repair
1147 E Rogers Rd
- Case Date:
- 3/27/2025
Pothole after circle heading up hill
Potholes, Other Street Repair
High & Greenbriar OB
- Case Date:
- 3/27/2025
Pothole north side of high street
Potholes, Other Street Repair
High & Greenbriar OB
- Case Date:
- 3/27/2025
Pothole north side of high street
Abandoned Vehicle
1010 S Dunn ST
- Case Date:
- 3/27/2025
This car has been parked here since Monday. It appears someone may be living out of it. If the person who owns the vehicle is associated with a nearby home, it would be safer for the car to be parked in that driveway.
Drainage or Runoff
909 W Cardinal CT
- Case Date:
- 3/27/2025
I am writing to bring attention to an issue I am facing as a new homeowner at 909 W Cardinal Ct, Bloomington, IN. There is a runoff in my backyard that originates from a creek in a nearby park. This runoff significantly affects the usability of my property, as I am unable to extend my backyard or fully maintain the lawn beyond my fenced-in area due to flooding. As the homeowner, I am responsible for cleaning and mowing the area on the other side of the fence, but i cannot access this space due to the water accumulation. I have reviewed the blueprint and property lines (LOT 4), and I do not believe there should be a body of water running through my backyard. I am also aware that my neighbors have previously complained about this issue, and I would like to resolve it so that I can fully enjoy and utilize my entire property. I would greatly appreciate your assistance in addressing this matter, as I am paying a substantial mortgage but am unable to fully access my entire property.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Trails
1020 S Woodlawn AVE
- Case Date:
- 3/27/2025
This large branch appears to be broken but is hanging directly above the walking path in Bryan Park. It is located along the path that goes alongside the creek, east of the restroom and near the corner of the fence for the pool.