Neighbors in Milton are fighting a plan to open a primate reserve.

It is legal to own exotic pets, but one of those owners wants to expand his fleet.  Neighbors of Dean Riopelle's Hopewell Road property are not happy about the idea.

"It is kind of a roadside zoo, if you will," Amy Stipancich told Channel 2 Action News.

She has created a petition to stop Riopelle from turning his 21-acre property into a sanctuary mainly for small primates.

"We've got health concerns because the primates carry Herpes B viruses and monkey pox," said Stipancich.

Milton City Council recently passed an amendment allowing ownership of exotic animals in the city.  Riopelle is asking for some zoning changes that would allow him to build a small preserve into an attraction.

"They let out an ear piercing loud, loud scream that sounds like somebody is being hurt," said neighbor Kay Norvell.

Channel 2 Action News reached out to Riopelle, but he declined to return their calls.  Milton City Council may take up the issue early next year.