Frank Speziale photo

NORWICH – The City of Norwich's joint committees met Wednesday night and voted to move the creation of a dog park concept to common council and allow its creator to continue fundraising.

The meeting started at 6:30 p.m. and continued past 10 p.m. on Wednesday at Norwich City Court, and during the meeting committee officials said Hannah Baker's fundraising efforts, planning, and participation in improving her community were to be commended and encouraged.

The vote to allow Baker to continue fundraising and move the concept to common council came after City of Norwich Ward 6 Alderman Robert D. Jeffery told other committee members, "I think this is a fantastic idea, and for someone as young as Hannah to be active in her community is incredible. I think we should encourage this kind of behavior and approve the park for common council."

City of Norwich Mayor Christine Carnrike also commented on the park and said Chobani has offered to supply engineers to help with the planning and the construction of the park if it were approved.