Minutes - Council - 08/29/2006 - Special

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COUNCIL BUSINESS Case #1: Request for a Permit to Allow Removal of Geese from Rum River Hills Golf Course Police Chief Way reviewed that at the August 22, 2006 Council meeting, an employee of the Rum River Hills Golf Course appeared before Council during Citizen Input requesting an assist with goose problems at the course. Mr. Way explained at various times there are 250 to 300 geese on the course. The geese have been eating the grass on the putting greens causing damage to them. They have also been defecating and urinating on the entire course, again causing damage and creating a nuisance to golfers. Rum River Hills management has tried several options to rid the course of the geese, including specially trained dogs and noise makers. Chief Way proposed that a permit be granted to the Rum River Hills Golf Course to allow geese to be removed by the use of shot guns. Ramsey City Code does allow discharging firearms in accordance with the laws of the State of Minnesota. However, the discharge of firearms shall not be permitted within 1,500 feet of any residential dwelling or other structure. The MN Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has been contacted by staff. The DNR indicated that the removal of the geese is permissible as long as MN State Statutes are followed by removing parties. The MN DNR Metro Goose season starts on September 2, 2006. In order to take advantage of the season, staff requested that this case be heard at a special Council meeting tonight, rather than waiting for the next regular meeting. Police Chief Way advised Staff recommends allowing the removal of geese by shotgun in accordance with MN State Statute concerning waterfowl. There are not any houses close to the pond, and there are no school buses or children in the area. The shoot is planned for morning and night, and the number of participants will be limited. Mayor Gamec stated he received calls relating to the size of the shots, whether the shots could land on houses in a strong wind, whether children will be woken up if the shoot is early, and regarding safety concerns with the children at the bus stop. He indicated he only received two calls in opposition to the shoot, the rest of the calls were expressing concerns. Councilmember Pearson asked who will pick the hunters. Police Chief Way replied he specifically will find out who the hunters are, where they have hunted, etc.; there will not be novice hunters involved. Councilmember Jeffrey asked if there has there been any discussion regarding lead versus steel shots, and how residents will be informed and kept from wandering into the area. Police Chief Way replied steel shots will be required. A letter will be drafted by the golf course manager and hand delivered to the adjoining neighborhoods to the west and north of the golf course. Anyone contacting the Police Department will be informed it is a controlled shoot. Mayor Gamec requested clarification that the shoot can be canceled if desired by the City. Special City Council / August 29, 2006 Page 3 of5