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Council declines to ban fishing at Pangborn Park for now, asks volunteers to help and will revisit next year
Summary
After public comment and offers from volunteer groups, the mayor and council agreed not to enact a fishing ban at Pangborn Park now and asked volunteers and staff to monitor conditions; the issue will return for review in one year.
The mayor and council considered whether to ban fishing at Pangborn Park on April 15 after public comment both for and against prohibiting fishing.
Council members said the city had received emails on both sides and thanked volunteers for stepping forward. Councilmember Burnett and others commended the Antietam Bassmasters for offering to help maintain the lake area. The council also noted a written position from TNR supporting continued fishing.
Council members concluded they lacked staff resources to enforce a ban and agreed they preferred volunteer cleanup and stewardship through the coming year. "My stance on banning has changed, for now," Councilmember (speaker) said, adding staff should monitor conditions and the council would revisit the question next year.
Why it matters
Pangborn Park is a neighborhood recreation asset; opponents of fishing raised concerns about litter, fishing line and wildlife impacts, while supporters cited public access and recreation. The council's decision keeps public fishing available but places responsibility on volunteers and staff monitoring.
Next steps
Staff will coordinate with volunteer groups such as the Antietam Bassmasters and report back to council next year or earlier if conditions warrant new action. The ban motion was effectively left on the table and not brought to a vote at the session.
