Every city has its debates on how taxpayer dollars should be spent, and in Burbank, a growing dialogue is taking center stage. As funds are channeled into city-installed coyote awareness campaigns, complete with large bus shelter posters, some residents are questioning the value of such investments, especially given the absence of any human injuries or bite incidents related to coyotes in Burbank.
Historical data underlines that there hasn’t been a single documented instance of a coyote biting a person in the city. In stark contrast, off-leash dogs are presenting a more pressing and tangible challenge to Burbank’s public safety.
One particularly alarming incident, though outside the city’s jurisdiction, serves as a potent reminder of the potential risks of unleashed dogs. Take the story of young Bridger, while trying to protect his sister from an aggressive off-leash dog, who suffered significant facial injuries that required close to 90 stitches. This incident, among others, underscores the need for vigilant pet ownership and adherence to local pet regulations.
Local residents have not been silent on the matter. Jose, a Burbank local, voiced his experience: “While on the Chandler Bikeway, I encountered an unleashed dog. When I asked the owners to leash their pet, I was met with hostility, necessitating police involvement. Such experiences emphasize the importance of following city regulations for the safety of all.”
Burbank’s municipal code, particularly sections 5-1-206 and 5-1-1001, spells out in clear terms the need for dogs to be leashed in public spaces. However, despite these mandates, there’s an observable disconnect between the laws in place and their consistent implementation.
The extensive visual campaign on coyotes — including the plethora of signs and substantial bus shelter posters — juxtaposed against the off-leash dog incidents raises essential questions about the allocation of city resources and public safety priorities. While wildlife interaction awareness undoubtedly has its place, there’s a growing sentiment among Burbank residents that more immediate and evident concerns, such as off-leash dogs, require corresponding attention — if not more. Do taxpayers really need to foot the bill for city-wide coyote awareness signs and pay for the city staff time required to manage such programs? Some say no.
As Burbank progresses, the challenge is discerning the most effective way to use taxpayer funds in the pursuit of public safety.
