My name is Courtney and I have a beautiful rooster named Jaime . He  isn't just any rooster, he's part of our family. When I say that, I mean he  greets us every morning like the warm sunshine on your face. He's a dearly loved companion not just by me but by the sweet little 2yr old who named him. He brings joy and purpose to our backyard, a small slice of tranquility and happiness in our otherwise hectic lives.

We live in a community that benefits from the presence of backyard poultry; these delightful birds provide fresh eggs, control pests, and enrich the soil naturally. However, our local council in Port Elgin NB is threatening to remove Jaime due to zoning regulations and a local by law that doesn't allow roosters . This doesn't consider the emotional bonds and environmental benefits that backyard chickens, such as Jaime, provide.

Jaime doesn’t disturb the peace—he graces it. Unlike the misconceptions some may have about roosters, Jaime’s crowing is less obtrusive than the noise from traffic or lawnmowers. Most  neighbors appreciate his presence, and he’s a beloved talking point. They enjoy hearing him in the morning.

The movement to support urban farming and sustainable living is growing. With the growing cost of food , people are turning to backyard gardens and hobby farms. We want to know where our food comes from and feel safe feeding our families.

We urge our village council to adopt a more progressive approach by ammending the by law to allow roosters like Jaime to remain part of our homes. Rezoning from Residental to Rural Residential can allow families to have this opportunity. Urban living and nature can coexist harmoniously when we embrace thoughtful, community-oriented policies along with responsible animal ownership.

This is not just about keeping an animal. It's about sustaining a way of life that encourages responsibility, recycling, and respect for living creatures. Allowing Jaime to stay is a commitment to these values. Real families and real communities benefit from this.  This will not only affect myself but all of Straight Shores. I will challenge this by law and Zoning to benefit everyone in our area .

It takes a village for change! 

Please sign and support the petition to #SaveJaime, to ensure that we can continue to have a compassionate and inclusive community that cherishes all its members—feathered or otherwise.