Should duck hunters be able to roam the marshlands on Centerville’s west side? Or do those outdoors enthusiasts put runners and cyclists at risk on the nearby Legacy Trail?
That’s the question now facing the Centerville City Council, which is considering a proposal to ban hunting within city limits.
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The potential ban has earned the attention of duck hunters, who turned out in numbers to voice disapproval at a public hearing last week. They told the City Council that the wetlands near Farmington Bay west of Sheep Road (about 1500 West) were prime hunting areas that should remain open.
But since the Legacy Trail was built, the city has received complaints from cyclists, runners and others that hunters are making the area unsafe, according to Police Chief Neal Worsley. Consequently, he forwarded the proposed hunting ban ordinance to the City Council.
"Our intent was to protect people and property," Worsley said.
But after the hearing, City Manager Steve Thacker said the proposed hunting ban is more complicated than city officials first thought.
"The open area and pastures and wetlands between Sheep Road and the Legacy Trail are a concern," he said. "But the hunters were unanimous in saying that it shouldn’t be banned west of Sheep Road."
The City Council tabled the matter for further study, said Mayor Ronald Russell.
Among the measures being considered is one that would make the area east of Sheep Road off limits to hunting, Russell said. That would keep hunters off the Legacy Trail. It also would allow duck hunting west of Sheep Road.
The council is expected to take a field trip to the area before rescheduling the matter for discussion.
If the council decides to limit hunting, it must forward a request — plus minutes from the public hearing — to the State Wildlife Board for approval.
"If the City Council is comfortable with hunting west of Sheep Road, I’m fine with it," Worsley said. "It’s all about public safety and balance."
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