The Springville City Council meeting on May 22, 2024, focused on the growing issue of urban deer in the city. Earl Wells, a resident, addressed the council, expressing concerns about the increasing deer population that has become a nuisance for local gardeners and homeowners. He highlighted that these deer are not seasonal visitors but have established themselves in Springville year-round, causing damage to gardens and decorative plants.

Wells urged the council to take action, suggesting either relocating the deer to more natural habitats or culling them, as has been done in the past. Lieutenant Leonard Cherry provided additional context, noting that while the city has a program in place to manage the deer population, state regulations have significantly restricted the timeframe for deer removal. Last year, the city managed to cull 25 deer, but estimates suggest that around 400 deer may be living within city limits.

The council confirmed that funding for the deer management program is included in the upcoming budget, and they plan to continue the efforts within the constraints set by state regulations. The designated months for deer removal this year are August and September, which presents challenges due to the need for quick processing of the deer for meat.

The discussion underscored the ongoing struggle between urban wildlife management and community concerns, with council members acknowledging the persistent deer problem and the need for effective solutions. The meeting concluded with a commitment to keep residents informed about the deer management program and its progress.