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Council weighs deer-management survey results and whether to solicit White Buffalo proposal
Summary
Staff presented preliminary results of the deer-management and archery survey (about 502 valid responses); council discussed options including keeping a 3-acre minimum, allowing aggregation, and whether to solicit a proposal from contractor White Buffalo for 2026–27, a motion that drew mixed support and will return with a fuller report.
City staff summarized interim results from a citywide deer-management survey and told council the detailed statistical analysis and qualitative review of open-ended comments will be available in September. Staff reported roughly 502 valid responses from a sample of 1,600 households and noted the questionnaire used eight-digit participation codes and IP checks to limit duplication.
Results were mixed: a majority of respondents supported keeping the three-acre minimum in some form, but the single largest combination response favored reducing minimum parcel size to one acre with aggregation allowed. On policy options, most respondents supported some form of deer-management activity rather than no action. During the resumed work session the council debated the merits and timing of re-engaging White Buffalo, a professional deer-management firm. Council member Dodwell moved to have the city administrator solicit a proposal from White Buffalo for 2026–27 services; the motion was discussed at length, drew a split response at roll call and will return with the final survey and a staff recommendation. Several council members emphasized the need for an updated deer count and clear scope before authorizing contract work.
