|
It’s been said that birds of a feather flock together. Maybe that’s why such a large crowd was on hand at a recent planning commission work session where ownership of chickens and rabbits inside the city limits was discussed.
Attendance at public meetings on such weighty matters as school bond measures or enterprise zones is never so high. But chickens and rabbits? Now, there’s a subject that hits people right in the gut.
The testimony was passionate and all in favor of amending the city code so folks can lawfully keep such such critters in their yards. Not one person spoke in opposition.
As things are now, no livestock at all is permitted in the city limits. The commission is considering changing the code to allow citizens to keep six rabbits, six chickens, or a combination of the two, up to six total (But no roosters. For purposes of keeping the peace, they’re banned outright).
Since so many people have spoken in favor, and none against, maybe the commission should recommend the change to the city council.
The proposed livestock amendment also would allow 4-H projects within residential zones, on lots big enough to support livestock. Permits would be temporary; when the project is over, the animals are gone. 4-H has always been an important activity for youth. It doesn’t seem a bad idea to give city kids the chance to participate.
But there are a few things to think about when it comes to changing local livestock rules.
A couple of the planners expressed reservations in regards to the chickens and rabbits. The big concern is that local police will have trouble enforcing attendant rules.
It’s easy to see the point. Officers already have their hands full enforcing existing animal ordinances. They spend more time than they should ever have to answering calls about neglected dogs and stray cats, and mediating disputes among neighbors about dogs that incessantly bark.
Is there any real reason to think that city dwellers granted the right to keep chickens and rabbits will be good eggs about it?
Bet the farm, not everybody will. Some flocks of poultry will grow large and unruly; some chicken coops will stink for want of cleaning; some rabbits will be set free to go forth and multiply in our urban forest. The enforcement problem needs study.
Keep in mind, nothing is a done deal yet. People who haven’t made their voices heard on this issue of great social and political import still have plenty of opportunity to do so.
Livestock rules and a raft of other proposed amendments to the land development code will get public hearings April 14 before the planning commission and May 6 before the city council. Depending on the amount of input, the council may carry the hearing over to the June meeting.
Whatever you do, don’t stay home. Your rights as a citizen are at stake, including your right to enjoy farm fresh eggs in the morning.
|
Opinion 
