Petition to Amend Tyndall's Bylaws to Permit the Keeping of 3–5 Hens

To: The Council of the Rural Municipality of Brokenhead

Subject: Amendment to Bylaws to Allow Backyard Hens in Tyndall

Background:

Tyndall, a designated place within the Rural Municipality of Brokenhead, has experienced steady growth, with a population of 1,001 as of the 2021 Census. As residents of Tyndall, we seek to enhance our community's sustainability and self-sufficiency by responsibly keeping a small number of hens (3–5) within our private properties.

Benefits of Allowing Backyard Hens:

1. Fresh, Healthy Eggs: Access to home-produced eggs ensures quality and reduces reliance on store-bought alternatives.

2. Educational Opportunities: Keeping hens provides hands-on learning about animal care and food production for families.

3. Environmental Impact: Hens contribute to waste reduction by consuming kitchen scraps and producing natural fertilizer for gardens.

4. Pest Control: Hens naturally reduce insect populations, benefiting local gardens and outdoor spaces.

Addressing Common Concerns:

• Noise: Hens are relatively quiet, especially compared to common household pets like dogs.

• Odor and Cleanliness: With proper coop maintenance, odors and hygiene issues can be effectively managed.

• Attracting Predators: Secure coops and responsible management minimize the risk of attracting predators.

Precedents in Other Communities:

Several Canadian municipalities have successfully integrated backyard hens into urban settings, including:

• Langley Township, BC: Advocacy led to bylaw amendments allowing up to six hens in backyards.

• Carleton Place, ON: Community petitions resulted in the council permitting backyard hens under specific guidelines.

Proposal:

We respectfully request that the Council of the Rural Municipality of Brokenhead consider amending the current bylaws to permit residents of Tyndall to keep 3–5 hens, with the following stipulations:

• No Roosters: To prevent noise disturbances, only hens should be allowed.

• Proper Housing: Hens must be kept in well-maintained coops that meet specified standards to ensure cleanliness and prevent odors.

• Compliance with Health Regulations: Owners must adhere to guidelines that protect public health and animal welfare.

Conclusion:

Allowing residents to keep a small number of hens aligns with Tyndall's growth and commitment to sustainability. By implementing clear guidelines, the community can enjoy the benefits of backyard hens while addressing potential concerns.

Signatures:

We, the undersigned residents of Tyndall, support this petition and urge the council to consider our proposal.