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OTTUMWA, IOWA -- A controversial pet may be welcomed back to Ottumwa. 

City council will hold a work session Monday to hear from proponents of pit bulls.  A group has petitioned to speak with council.  The city has banned the dog since the mid-90’s. 

Councilman Bob Meyers says that the city has received information both for and against allowing the dogs in the city.

“We have materials on time lines of incidences prior to the banning of pit bulls in the city,” Meyers said.  “[Ottumwa Police Chief Jim Clark] has provided us with a listing of dates and times of persons being bit, animals being killed.” 

Meyers says this is the first time the issue was brought to his attention since he’s been on city council. 

“I’ve never had anybody contact me in anyway and ask me about the potential of changing to allow it.  I think probably because the topic’s been brought up.  I’ve certainly had people say to me, please do not change that ordinance.”

Council will not vote on a change to the ordinance on Monday and Meyers doesn’t expect a change in the future.

“That's something I have not had any conversations with other council people and because I haven't had any contact either through them or by myself, I don't foresee any change in the ordinance.”