By Bonnie Adams, Government Editor
Westborough – The town's Veterans Freedom Park, with its 22-acres off of West Main Street, and which abuts the Mill Pond, has become a favorite recreational destination for many residents, including those who enjoy walking their dogs. But a few owners, who don's pick up after their pets, are ruining the experience for everyone, the Westborough Board of Selectmen said at its April 10 meeting. But rather than employ strict measures to penalize owners or restrict the park's usage, Town Manager Jim Malloy suggested using another way – “emotionally intelligent signage.”
At the board's April 24 meeting, Malloy explained a bit more about what that concept meant and offered some suggestions of possible verbiage for new signs that could be posted at the park.
“The concept seeks to obtain compliance through creating empathy,” he said. In other words, he said as an example, don's just use a generic term like “children” but say instead “our children.”
One idea would be a sign that said “Our children play here, please clean up after your dog.” Another would say “Our H.S. Cross Country Track Team runs here, please clean up after your dog.”
The board agreed to have four signs made using the verbiage. Additionally, Malloy said he would request that the Department of Public Works add a few more barrels and another bag dispenser further out on the property.
