Youngstown & Mahoning Valley - Just one week after the Mill Creek Metroparks board voted to move forward with a controlled deer hunting program, those against the plan aren't giving up. 

Hundreds looking to save thousands of deer and protect their properties are now considering their legal options. Former Ohio Attorney General Marc Dann said safety concerns could be the aspect that puts a stop to the park board's plan. 

"We want to look at you in the face and tell you what we believe," explained Mickey Drabison, Organizer of Help Save the Mill Creek Park Deer.

Hundreds of homeowners a part of the group looking to save the deer population in Mill Creek Metroparks aren't staying silent.

"We're not giving up," Drabison added. "We have different avenues to go and then we're going to voice our opinion."

Hundreds gathered Tuesday on Youngstown's west side to hear from former Ohio Attorney General Marc Dann about potential legal actions they could take.

"This is in part a political conversation," Dann said. "The park board's an accountable government entity and I think they need to listen to what the public has to say."

Dann explained that lawsuits are possible if the board doesn't budge with negotiating the plan.

"What we'd rather do is see the park reconsider its decision and consider the input of so many people in the community," Dann said.

"They're now talking about having hunters for the whole hunting season in part of the park which could put neighbors on edge," he added. 

"We do not agree with the plan to start at Route 224 and go to Mahoning Avenue to kill everything," Drabison said. "We just do not see the numbers and question the company conducting it. We could agree to negotiate if there is a proven population issue."

From eminent domain concerns to potential safety issues with this program, Dann told the crowd plenty of legal action could be taken after listening to their concerns.

From public records lawsuits to claims of those living adjacent to the park, Dann said the strongest legal argument is safety. This would include when the hunting will take place and the proximity to homes.

"They're going to work hard to get good information, share it with members of the board, share it with members of the public, and hopefully the community can come to a consensus about this," Dann added. 

This plan will not get underway until Ohio hunting season begins this fall. 

Dann added this gives homeowners time to pursue legal action if they believe they have a case.