Morrison County schedules March 12 public hearing on local firearm rules for deer hunting

After describing a statewide change that repealed shotgun zones, County Administrator Mister LeBlanc recommended the board solicit public input before deciding whether to adopt a local ordinance preserving shotgun‑only restrictions in parts of Morrison County.

LeBlanc told commissioners that, unless the county acts, the entire county would revert to rifle‑legal deer hunting under the state rule change, and that the county could adopt a local ordinance to retain shotgun/slug restrictions for the previously designated area. “If the county takes no action, the entire county Morrison would be rifle,” LeBlanc said; he also noted the DNR will not enforce restrictions beyond those placed by counties and local law enforcement.

Commissioners debated timing and access for public comment. Several board members favored an evening hearing to make it easier for constituents to attend. After checking schedules and potential conflicts (township elections, Extension activities), the board agreed to hold the public hearing Thursday, March 12 at 6 p.m. in the county boardroom. Staff will publish the required notice and contact residents who previously raised concerns so they may be heard.

The board did not take a substantive vote on the ordinance at the Feb. 10 meeting; the March 12 hearing will solicit public comment before commissioners decide whether to adopt a local restriction or take no action and allow rifle hunting countywide.

Next steps: Staff will publish required notice and prepare background materials for the March 12 hearing; the board may schedule additional hearings depending on public response.