The Norwich common council voted to keep the hours of operation for Baker Dog Park the same. Open hours are from dawn to dusk. (Photo by Tyler Murphy)

NORWICH — During the common council meeting on Tuesday, June 15, council members held a public hearing to hear Norwich resident’s opinions on the possible change in hours to Baker Dog Park. After discussion the council ultimately voted not to change the hours at this time.

The park was created in 2019 and has operated according to the town-wide park hours, which is closure from dusk to dawn.

However, since establishing the park officials reported they had received noise complaints from residents prompting council members to consider limiting the park’s hours of operation from dusk until 8 a.m.

The creation of a dog park in Norwich was proposed by local Norwich teen and community volunteer, Hannah Baker, who attended the meeting and spoke during the public forum. She explained why she believes the hours should not be changed, and possible solutions to the noise complaints.

"I do not believe the hours of the dog park should be changed. Currently they are from dusk until dawn. And I think there are other ways to go about possible noise complaints, such as I could put something on the Facebook page, signage on the fencing that says, you know, please be respectful of neighbors at so-and-so times," said Baker.

She also suggested having a police presence in the park from 6 a.m. to 6:30 a.m., to assist in making sure visitors to the park are being respectful and keeping noise to a minimum.