Those who have signed this petition please note and join for this important meeting to keep our dogs and beach and community safe! 

Dear Winnetka Park District Community,

This notice is to inform the community of an upcoming Village of Winnetka Plan Commission meeting involving a Winnetka Park District application related to Centennial Dog Beach.

Village of Winnetka Plan Commission – Regular Meeting
Date: Wednesday, January 28, 2026
Time: 7:00pm
Location: Winnetka Village Hall, Council Chambers

The Winnetka Park District has submitted a Special Use Permit application to the Village of Winnetka for chain-link fencing at Centennial Dog Beach. The Park District has received approval from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources related to the proposed fencing. 

The application proposes installation of 4' chain-link fencing along the northern and southern boundaries of the designated dog beach area, including removable sections and access gates which will remain unlocked.
The Plan Commission will review the application at this meeting. Public comment is part of the meeting process. Additional Village review will occur through other reviewing bodies.

Our community thrives on safety and connection, putting the well-being of our children and pets at the forefront. The serene sands of Winnetka's beaches have long been a refuge, a place where laughter and serenity meet. However, many of us have faced moments of fear when even the best trained animals have their moments and have caused our loved ones concern while all we sought was a moment of peace by the waterfront. This is a situation that can and should be addressed. 

Imagine enjoying a day at Elder Lane Beach without the constant vigilance that currently mars each visit. Our beaches, particularly the beloved Winnetka's Centennial Dog Beach, help knit the fabric of our community, offering a place for recreation and social interaction that strengthens both our bodies and our communal spirit. Surveys by the park district and village caucus confirm that the full reopening of the Elder Lane Beach is one of our community’s top priorities. 

To ensure the safety and enjoyment of all, we propose securing the dog beach with resilient fencing. This simple step could alleviate many of the concerns within our community, allowing families and pets to enjoy the shoreline without fear of unexpected encounters. Such an enhancement would reflect our dedication to safety, while preserving the beauty and utility of the lakefront.

Winnetka’s shoreline is more than just a recreational asset; it is a gathering space that enhances our quality of life. Keeping our beach secure means preserving a vital community hub where health, connection, and well-being flourish. Elder Lane has long been a jewel of our community and deserves efforts to ensure its splendor remains untarnished and accessible for generations to come.

Join us in urging our local authorities to take immediate action in fortifying the safety of Winnetka's Centennial Dog Beach. Sign this petition to voice your support for a secure and enjoyable shoreline. Together, we can make sure that the Winnetka beaches remain a safe haven for all who visit.