COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa (AP) – A group of residents wants Council Bluffs to lift its ban on pit bull dogs.

The Daily Nonpareil reports that about 25 people attended Monday night’s City Council meeting asking for the repeal.

The ban has been on the books since 2005, when officials said they were banning the breed in an effort to reduce dog bites.

Resident Shala Richardson says that hasn’t happened, citing figures she requested from local officials.

Patricia Fuller says she believes the only way to reduce dog bites is to require more responsible dog ownership.

Council member Melissa Head says she’s open to the idea of walking back the ban. Three of the five council members would have to agree for the ban to be repealed.