We, residents of the Town of  Sheboygan, Wisconsin, wish to control the quality of our food better. Fueled by our commitment to healthier, homegrown produce, we find ourselves confronted by a local ordinance restricting the rearing of chickens within town limits.

Chickens provide not only fresh eggs but also reduce household waste by consuming kitchen scraps, contributing to a greener, more sustainable lifestyle. Importantly, they are a critical link in local food self-sustainability. According to the US Department of Agriculture, home-raised chickens have lower Salmonella contamination rates compared to commercial ones, underlining the health benefits of this practice.

According to a study conducted by the Johns Hopkins Center for a Livable Future, there are over twenty major cities in the USA where raising chickens in backyards is legal. This practice is positively contributing to local food self-reliance and environmental benefits, a direction the Town of Sheboygan should consider pursuing. 

It's crucial that our town reevaluates its stance on urban farming, more specifically, the rearing of chickens, considering the multiple benefits it brings to the community and the individual's control over the quality of their food. 

We therefore urge the Town of Sheboygan to amend its local ordinance, allowing the practice of rearing chickens within the town. Help us take control of our food quality and contribute to a healthier and more sustainable Sheboygan. Sign the petition today!