Chickens are currently classified as livestock and not allowed within city limits, but it is a missed opportunity for the members of this community. 

The goal is to allow up to 10 hens per property within city limits. (no crowing foul) 

many surrounding towns and cities have already amended their ordinances to allow backyard chicks with provisions. 

chickens offer many benefits including but not limited to;

1) Inexpensive pest control. Chickens will keep the area they are kept in virtually bug free. 

2) Hens are docile and can make great pets. 

3) Hens do not need a rooster to produce eggs for the family.

4) Keeping of hens is relatively inexpensive and offers a good sours of food when grocery stores are sparse like they are now during COVID-19

5) For families with children it is a priceless opportunity to teach children where there food comes from and can teach responsibly. 

6) Free rage chicken eggs have been shown to have less cholesterol than store bought eggs. https://www.motherearthnews.com/real-food/free-range-eggs-zmaz07onzgoe

 

When the issue was presented to the city commission for a vote on September 3rd 2019 it was voted down 3-2. 

I would like to address some of the concerns that the three commissioners who voted no presented as well as the resolutions the commission can consider. 

Concern: Chickens can smell. This is only true if their space is not kept clean

Solution: Junction City already has an ordinance that has penalties for those who pets and or home have a foul smell. (Section 235.010 B-3)

Concern: What if chickens attract predators?

Solution: It can be written that the chickens coop and run must be within a fenced yard. This would deter most predators. Also, suburban chickens biggest predators are domestic dogs which are already prohibited from running at large (Section 215.035 this provision would also apply to chickens at large)

Concern: Cost to the city

Solution: By imposing a small fee of $50 every five years to keep the chickens as well as requiring the chickens enclosure to be permitted and inspected inspected for a $50 fee it should offset any additional charges the city may incur.