Although the property at the corner of Old Stage Road and TenTen was annexed into Garner’s town limits in February 2004, the land has always been rural in nature.

The Overby family has had a turkey shoot on the property for more than 20 years - a violation of the Town Code that says no firearm can be discharged within the town limits.

A resident concerned about safety called a complaint; however, Deputy Chief of Garner Police Eric Copeland said the police deemed the turkey shoot area safe.

Up to 15 shooters can take part in the event at any one time and they can only use eight round pellets, which are intended for birds. The birm where hunters are directing their shots sits 60 feet away. The nearest driveway, also owned by the Overbys, is two tenths of a mile away from the shots.

According to Mayor Pro tem Buck Kennedy, the bird shots don’t travel more than 150 yards.

The turkey shoot has been running from 7 to 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays in a 22-acre field behind a hardware store on Old Stage Road.

Assistant Town Manager Rodney Dickerson wrote a letter approving the turkey shoot for Oct. 16 and 17, but told the Overby family the issue would have to go before the Town Council before the event could continue.

The Garner Town Council voted 4-1 to keep the turkey shoot. Council member Ken Marshburn had the descending vote, saying that he felt it would open the door for more turkey shoots to spring up around town.

Still, the Council wanted to help the family keep the annual event, as long as it ends at an earlier time and is approved through the Town Manager’s office.

“I like tradition,” Council member Gra Singleton said. “I don’t want to see tradition die.”

The seasonal event will run Fridays and Saturdays from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. through Christmas.