We tend to agree with the Auburn City Council’s decision to ban gunfire in the southeastern part of the city, but we’re not so certain that it’s the best decision that we oppose more discussion on the subject.

On Sept. 26, the City Council voted to add about 430 acres east of Washington Avenue and south of Hackett Road to its no-hunting zone. On Monday, the council will reconsider the decision.

Several property owners in the area say they did not have the opportunity to speak against the change before it was made, and they have gathered 80 names on a petition asking for a new hearing.

Auburn is growing. New development is changing the landscape and culture of the city. Activities that were common and acceptable in the past sometimes must give way as more people and businesses try to live within a limited amount of space.

At the same time, it’s best to carefully consider changes. By further limiting hunting within city limits, there could be unintentional effects, including a growing animal population that poses an increased risk to drivers and personal property. In other cities that have restricted or banned hunting, deer populations have soared until the animals are considered pests.

As Auburn continues to grow, it will become harder to balance activities like hunting with a larger, more densely populated city. It’s worth making sure that the new firearms prohibition is the right decision.

The City Council is right to hear what hunters have to say, even if the restriction ultimately stands.