To the editor:
I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the recent legal opinion issued by the Town Counsel on the proposed dog park at Stocker Playground.
When I submitted a public records request, I specifically asked for the legal opinion concerning the deed restriction on the property — a restriction that clearly states the land must be used “solely as a playground in perpetuity.” Instead, what I received was a response that sidesteps this core issue and attempts to reinterpret the restriction in a way that contradicts its plain meaning.
The Town Counsel’s opinion suggests that a dog park qualifies as a playground because dogs engage in “play.” But this logic ignores the very clear and intentional use of the word “solely.” The land was donated with a purpose: to serve as a dedicated playground for the community’s children and families — not a shared or reimagined space. Recasting the term “playground” to include animal recreation undermines the donor’s intent and sets a dangerous precedent for other protected lands in town.
This isn’t just a legal debate — it’s about trust. Trust in the town to respect the terms of a charitable gift. Trust in our government to be transparent. And trust that when something is promised “in perpetuity,” it actually means something.
That said, this doesn’t need to be a divisive issue. There are less intrusive options for locating a dog park that wouldn’t disrupt neighborhood green space or violate binding deed restrictions. As Selectman Cogliano rightly stated at the April 2024 public forum, “the residents should be heard.”
Many residents have already suggested underused or vacant town-owned properties — including former elementary school sites and the unused land behind the DPW — that could serve this purpose far better.
It’s not too late for our elected officials to take a step back and do this the right way. Respect the deed. Respect the neighborhood. And most importantly, respect the people who live here. Saugus can absolutely support a dog park — but it should not come at the expense of a playground that was meant to serve children and families forever.
Sincerely,
Mark V. Sacco Jr.
Saugus
