Council weighs expanding archery deer-management program to qualified non-residents

Council members debated whether to expand the borough’s archery deer-management program to qualified non-residents after a recommendation from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Mr. Vayoki introduced the proposal and said the proposal would allow non-residents who meet background and experience criteria to participate, while retaining Chief Williams’ authority to approve participants. Mr. Fry and other council members noted that the standards the chief applies are drawn from the Pennsylvania Game Commission and requested written clarity about the specific criteria the chief uses when approving applicants.

Several members asked about outreach to neighboring municipalities and archery clubs to increase participation before considering culling; Mr. Lawrence suggested posting notices on the borough website and other channels and contacting local archery and hunting clubs.

Council members also discussed vetting: for applicants who live outside the borough, staff would collect background information, contact details and hunting experience so the borough could confirm candidates are appropriately qualified to operate in public parks and wooded areas. No ordinance change was adopted at the Sept. 2 meeting; members instructed staff to circulate proposed language and confirmed they were generally open to placing the amendment on an agenda for further consideration.

Mr. Vayoki and members emphasized that any program expansion would still follow state Game Commission requirements and that the chief’s approval would be required for all participants.