Campbell River has backed off banning the firing of bows within city limits after residents and clubs called the move off-target.
Coun. Susan Sinnott apologized last night (Thursday) for how the consultation process rolled out and asked for the changes to be rescinded.
Cancelling the changes passed unanimously.
Sinnott’s move came after scores of emails and letters plus a deputation from the Campbell River Fish and Wildlife Association.
“I’m wondering why when doing your research your bylaw enforcement department did not think to build in the club exemption to this amendment or to contact our club instead of waiting to see if there would be backlash from the community,” President Joanne Saunders stated.
Mayor Kermit Dahl was also apologetic and told Saunders it was never the intention to target the “law-abiding and respectful people,” like archers and local clubs.
“This was to deal with one individual that wouldn’t try to be respectful of his neighbours’ concerns and unfortunately we don’t get to make bylaws for the smartest people in the city, so that’s where it got started from,” Dahl said.
During a public feedback period on the proposed changes, the city received over 50 letters and emails from residents, mostly against banning the firing of bows within city limits.
