With all the mystery surrounding our food, the conditions in which it is grown and/or raised, and the harmful chemicals with which it may or may not come into contact, wouldn't it be nice to have a  little more control over what we feed our families? 

Not only would chickens provide an amazing source of protein each day in the form of fresh eggs, but a small backyard flock of hens could mean the difference between depression and a good quality of life for someone who lives alone and doesn't get out much, or have many visitors. Chickens would require that person to care for them, provide for them, interact with them... Chickens could make community ties even stronger, and introduce people who may never have crossed paths otherwise. There are even arguments that backyard chickens can actually raise property values, which is in the best interest of the entire town. 

Those are just a few reasons to support this petition, but there are many more. Please join me in support of legalizing backyard chickens in Hagerstown so that we can all enjoy the benefits of this simple pleasure.