Lori Morgan addressed the Litchfield City Council Thursday evening during the public participation portion about a problem with hunting on city property north of 16th Avenue.

Morgan said that for years, opening day of the shotgun season has been a problem, as 7 or 8 vehicle are consistently seen parking in the area with 2 people per vehicle. Those people are then hunting close to residential areas, which can be dangerous.

Police Chief Lee Jarman said an ordinance is in effect right now that allows hunters to hunt on city property north of 16th Avenue, although he said he believes the city has the authority to say no to the hunters as well.

Alderman Dwayne Gerl said that hunters are supposed to ask for the city's permission first, and then be put on a list before being allowed to hunt there.

Morgan said the problem seems to be only during shotgun season, as bowhunting and shotgun turkey season has never caused any problems. She added that she's concerned someone is going to get hurt if this problem is allowed to continue.

Mayor Steve Dougherty said the council will discuss the matter further at the next city council meeting. He added that the council will have to go one way or another on the issue, since it would not be right to let some hunt on the property while not allowing others.

The next Litchfield City Council meeting is scheduled for Thursday, September 7, at 6:30 p.m.