But dogs and their owners might have to contend with some stiff opposition before they get what they want.

At a Parks and Recreation Commission meeting on Jan. 3, several commissioners voiced their concerns about such a measure. So did a few residents.

Commissioner Tom Soukup, who is also part of the dog task force committee, came to the meeting armed with the findings of the task force committee. He outlined the reasons for the selection of the two city parks.

Congress Springs Park was chosen because it is bordered by Highway 85 and the Union Pacific Railroad, according to a document circulated at the meeting. "Because the facility is primarily used by the local youth sports groups, the neighborhood is somewhat tolerant of the noise generated by usage at the park. The park is large and open, and could easily and safely accommodate dogs roaming off-leash," said the document. Congress Springs Park, at 9.97 acres, was the city staff's number one choice.

El Quito was recommended because it is already heavily utilized by dog owners. "The park is in a very busy commercial area, surrounded by a private school, a church, a senior housing complex and various businesses," said the document.

The task force had recommended off-leash hours at the two parks on weekdays between 6 and 9 a.m. for a six-month trial period. The costs for the project include the installation of code of conduct signs and drinking fountains for dogs.

Soukup said at the meeting that the committee was not ready to go to the city council yet. He said that the task force had tried to select a park that would minimize the interaction between kids and dogs. "The task force chose parks where there would not be any conflict with other regular and organized park activities," said Soukup.

He said that a certain amount of self-policing would be required for the idea to be successful. "Owners with misbehaving dogs should be told that they are doing the wrong thing," he said.

Commissioner Greg Gates said that he needed more direction from the city council about where they wanted to go with the dog park. "I want to know which way they are leaning ... we need solid feedback and some real direction," said Gates.

Park Commissioner Vita Bruno also voiced her apprehensions about the plan for off-leash dog hours at the park. Sandy Cross, a resident who is part of the task force, also voiced concern about the safety of children.

Elaine Clabeaux, a former parks and recreation commissioner, spoke passionately against the idea. "The parks are for our citizenry, all of them. These are public parks and not for special interest groups," she said. Clabeaux also added that off-leash hours would attract dog owners from nearby cities.

Tom Barbaro and Stan Levy of the Friends of Saratoga Dogs also attended the meeting.

Soukup said that he would take the concerns of the commissioners and citizens back to the task force for further discussion.