Much ado about clucking

A proposal that would bring chickens to backyards in Everly received both support and scrutiny during a special gathering Tuesday at City Hall.

Members of the urban chicken committee listened to residents' opinions on allowing laying hens in town. The proposal was first floated in front of the council last month, but members wanted to seek community input on the matter before making a final decision.

Supporters of the plan, which was suggested by resident Janice Nielsen, iterated many of the same points that were brought up previously. Urban chickens provide their owners with an independent food source, are great 4-H projects for children, and help keep insect populations down. Nielsen explained the cost of raising chickens correctly is prohibitive to individuals who may want to buy a few birds on a whim, and she didn't think the animals would cause much fuss if the council were to change its ordinance.

City code does not currently allow any poultry to be raised inside city limits.

"The people that get them are really going to want them and take care of them," Nielsen said.

Many Iowa cities have ordinances on the books that allow residents to raise laying hens on their property. Rules differ across the state, but Nielsen said local enforcement of regulations would be key to avoiding any issues.

Those who were against the plan were concerned poultry would draw more critters into town. They were also worried about odor and the threat of disease.

Council Member Tara Patrick said feedback she's received over the past month was mostly against urban chickens. She was concerned Everly lacked the resources to enforce regulations if the birds were allowed in town, but also believed those who wanted birds would take good care of them.

"I've done a lot of research and there's a lot that goes into it," she said.

Though a quorum was present Tuesday, the committee did not vote on the matter. The council will again discuss the issue at its meeting on March 20.

Informational packets are available at City Hall for individuals who are interested in learning more about urban chickens. Mayor Ron Thompson said he's done a lot of research on the topic and encouraged residents to do the same.

"It could open your eyes if you're a no, and it could open your eyes if you're a yes," he said.