After Years of Debate, Pasadena Roving Archers Score a Bullseye

[Editor’s Note: This article originally stated that the Council had authorized exclusive use of the archery range by the Pasadena Roving Archers. That is not correct. In fact, the archery range is a public range which may be used by any member of the public for archery as long as the rules of the range are followed.]

 

Capping a debate which emerged four years ago with hearings in 2010, the Pasadena City Council Monday approved a staff recommendation to enter into an agreement with the Pasadena Roving Archers for continued use of an archery range in the Lower Arroyo.

Councilmembers Terry Tornek and Steve Madison and Mayor Bill Bogaard opposed the measure but were overruled by Councilmembers  Victor Gordo, John Kennedy, Gene Masuda, Margaret McAustin,  and Vice Mayor Jacque Robinson.

Local homeowners had said the archery range was dangerous and that arrows are found on their property, but Pasadena Parks and Recreation Commission Chairwoman Rita Moreno said earlier there was no evidence to support their concerns.

Others objected to the use by archers of the range area, saying that it should also be open to hikers, dog walkers and joggers. In particular, a small group of residents advocated the use of a walking trail through the range under a concept of “shared use.”

As a result of the Council’s decision on Monday the areas where hikers can traverse will be separated from the archery range by yet-to-be-constructed natural barriers and warning signs will be posted. Hikers will also be permitted to walk in the range if they stay on the shooting lane, following the rules of the range.

The Council hearing came late Monday evening and brought out a number of residents and members of the Pasadena Roving Archers, whose use of the Lower Arroyo range dates back to November, 1935. Prior to the hearing, the City Clerk’s Office received 197 letters in favor of the Roving Archers and 28 letters in opposition. Dozens showed up for public comment.