Hi everyone,

First, thank you so much for all the support, messages, and shared experiences. It truly means a lot to my family.

We are currently facing enforcement under Ordinance 30-117.4 (MDR)  & 30-203 and related codes, even though our coop and run meet the space requirements (2x2 per bird, proper setbacks of over 25 ft from neighbors, sanitation measures like sand flooring and agricultural lime, covered run, etc.). We have always tried to follow every rule and be responsible residents.

Many community members have reached out to me privately with their own stories:

• Residents with similar or smaller lots who currently keep small flocks without issue

• Families who were forced to rehome chickens because they didn’t have time or resources to fight zoning decisions

• Residents who even left Millville over difficulties related to keeping backyard chickens

This shows how important clear, fair interpretation of ordinances is for our community.

If you’d like to help, you can respectfully reach out and share your thoughts with city officials:

Mayor– dan.dixon@millvillenj.gov

Zoning Officer – itzel.torres@millvillenj.gov

Please keep messages respectful and focused on supporting responsible small backyard flocks, fair ordinance interpretation, and clear guidance for residents.

This issue also affects homeschooling families, people working toward food self-sufficiency, and neighbors trying to responsibly raise a small number of hens for eggs. Historically, small backyard flocks have been part of healthy communities, and we hope Millville can continue that tradition.

Thank you again for standing with us. I’m happy to answer questions and keep everyone updated as things move forward.