Georgetown, October 23, 2025
News Summary
Residents of Sun City Texas in Georgetown are raising alarms over a proposed white-tailed deer trapping program scheduled for 2026. As concerns grow, a petition aims to halt the program, advocating for more humane wildlife management solutions. Community members recall distressing experiences from past programs and demand alternative management strategies. A town hall meeting attracted local interest, and the Sun City Community Association plans a workshop to gather resident opinions before a final decision on the program is made in November.
Georgetown Residents Voice Concerns Over Possible Deer Trapping Program
Residents of Sun City Texas in Georgetown are expressing growing concerns regarding the potential return of a white-tailed deer trapping program set for 2026. This program, which has been on pause for several years, is back on the table, raising alarm among community members who are advocating for alternative wildlife management solutions.
A petition has emerged among residents aiming to halt the deer trapping program, reigniting discussions that have previously filled local forums. These concerns can be traced back to similar issues reported in 2021, when the deer trapping program was still active, leading to heated debates among the community.
Community Sentiment
Many residents are vocal against the program. One notable resident, Barbara Meisner, who has lived in Sun City for eight years, has referred to the program as an “abusive system of animal control”. She, along with other like-minded individuals, is advocating for a more humane, nonviolent approach to managing the local deer population.
Derrick Wolter from the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department (TPWD) has pointed out that communities have the option to manage deer populations by applying for special permits. Historically, wildlife was able to manage itself effectively; however, changes in modern living have necessitated community involvement in regulation and control of deer numbers.
Trapping Process Explained
The proposed trapping method consists of setting nets a few feet off the ground to capture deer that are lured in by bait, like corn. Once captured, these deer are transported to processing facilities and humanely euthanized. Under state regulations, the meat from these trapped deer is required to be donated to charitable organizations, providing some benefit from the program.
Residents, including Laura Dole, recalled distressing experiences during the program’s operation, specifically the sounds of deer being loaded into trailers, which added to their opposition. Since 2011, a total of 19 permits for deer trapping have been issued within Williamson County and Travis County.
Concerns Over Safety and Property Damage
Issues such as potential car accidents and property damage caused by the deer population have also fueled residents’ concerns. Experts from TPWD recognize that the local deer population can impact daily life significantly, prompting discussions regarding effective management strategies.
The Sun City Wildlife Management Committee has recently organized a private town hall event to discuss the possible return of the deer trapping program, which attracted significant local interest. However, local news outlets have reported they could not attend the event, leaving the community eager for more information.
As of now, the Sun City Community Association has not made any official statements regarding the deer trapping program. In response to mounting concerns, the association has scheduled a workshop on November 6 to explore and gather resident opinions on the deer management program. A final decision regarding the program is expected on November 20.
FAQ
What is the current status of the deer trapping program in Sun City Texas?
The deer trapping program has been paused in recent years, but there are concerns about its possible return in 2026.
What are residents doing to oppose the deer trapping program?
A petition is circulating among residents to stop the deer trapping program.
When will a decision regarding the deer trapping program be made?
A final decision regarding the program will be made by the Sun City Community Association on November 20.
Key Features of the Deer Trapping Program
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Status | Paused, with potential resumption in 2026 |
| Resident Opposition | Petition circulating to stop the program |
| Trapping Method | Setting nets a few feet off ground to capture deer lured by bait |
| Program History | 19 permits issued since 2011 in Williamson and Travis Counties |
| Decision Date | November 20 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Broussard’s 1889: Michael Judice Obituary
- Wikipedia: White-tailed deer
- Express News: Mountain Lions Trapping & Hunting Rules in Texas
- Google Search: Deer Trapping Program
- KXAN: Georgetown Residents Concerned Over Deer Trapping Program
- Google Scholar: Wildlife Management
- Legacy: Curtis Andrews Sr. Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Deer Management
- Hamil Family Funeral Home: Tyler Morrow Obituary
- Google News: Texas Parks and Wildlife
Author: STAFF HERE GEORGETOWN
The GEORGETOWN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREgeorgetown.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Georgetown, Williamson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Red Poppy Festival, Georgetown Swirl, and Christmas Stroll. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Georgetown Association, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as local wineries and historic downtown shops. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
