Lower Burrell's Kotecki Park to include space for dogs

Lower Burrell police Officer Derek Kotecki’s legacy will be remembered in the city in a new way.

Council approved plans for a dog park at K-9 Officer Derek Kotecki Memorial Park.

The dog park will be located past the outfield of the ballfield, closest to where people pull in to the park, off Wildlife Lodge Road. Councilman David Stoltz said the park will be divided into two sections and will be named after Kotecki’s police dog partners, Benny and Odin.

Kotecki, Lower Burrell’s police dog police officer for 18 years, was killed in the line of duty on Oct. 12, 2011.

“Your continued efforts enhancing the park not only provide new opportunities for residents and their pets, but also deepen the meaning and impact of the space,” Shasta Meixelberger, a friend of the Koteckis, told council.

“By investing in Kotecki Park, we are honoring the memory of Derek in a way that reflects his service, love for community and the legacy that he left behind. This will continue to bring people together, foster connection and serve as a living tribute in his dedication.”

The dog park was made possible with the support of the Kotecki Memorial Foundation. The foundation donated $15,000 toward the park, which covers just more than half of the total cost, Stoltz said. Council thanked the foundation for their generosity.

Stoltz anticipates the park to be up and running in mid-August. The city contracted North American Fencing Corp. to install the fence.

In addition to the dog park, the Kotecki Memorial Foundation also awards educational scholarships to area high school seniors and coordinates an annual golf outing, this year to be held Aug. 23 at Hill Crest Country Club. The foundation is still accepting sponsorships and raffle baskets.

The outing, now in its 14th year, is sold out, but people interested in sponsoring or donating a raffle prize can contact the foundation at odkbc27@gmail.com.

Formerly Wolf Pack Park, the park was renamed and dedicated to Kotecki in 2016.

“When people think about Lower Burrell, Kotecki Park is the most high-profile area we have,” said Mayor Chris Fabry. “It’s the most beautiful part of our city, and this further exemplifies that.”

Officials also say the dog park will complement the area well.

“I’ve heard a lot of feedback from the community,” said Stoltz, who often walks his three dogs at the park. “Countless people would come up to me and say, ‘When are we getting a dog park?’ ”