As America’s food supply could become threatened, people are seeking ways to become more self-sustaining by raising their own food. Some residents are asking city officials to allow the raising of backyard chickens, a measure already in effect in the majority of Twin Cities suburbs.

During this time of COVID-19, I would like the opportunity to teach my kids about the cycle of life – learning intimately where their food comes from and being hands-on in this time of social distancing. Sharing fresh eggs and teaching/showing neighborhood children where and how food comes from is an essential part of life that has not been taught in our schools. Raising chickens could allow families, like mine, to teach their children where food comes from, sustainability practices and how to responsibly care for an animal.

The majority of the Hennepin County cities allow backyard chickens with varying requirements and small yards, including Plymouth, Orono, Hopkins, Minnetonka, St. Louis Park, Eden Prairie, Golden Valley, Bloomington, Crystal, Robbinsdale, New Hope, Maple Grove, Edina and Minneapolis

Egg prices are on the rise, according to Chris Robinson, store manager at the Cub Foods Waterford Park Plaza location in Plymouth. Robinson reported egg prices increasing by about a dollar a dozen since the pandemic hit Minnesota.

For many, there are concerns regarding the raising of chickens such as the potential of foul odor, noise from the birds, and lot size. Many cities and their residents have proven that these "issues" are of no concern. With regulation and responsibility many families will benefit. In surrounding cities it has been proven that hens would be less of a nuisance than dogs, as they are contained, don’t bark and aren’t aggressive. In addition, cities that do allow backyard chickens rarely receive complaints.

For reference- Since the ordinance went into effect two years ago the City of Eden Prairie Zoning Administrator James Schedin stated in a local paper they haven’t had any complaints. The process is also fairly “quick and simple” from a city administration standpoint, noting it is not nearly as involved as with beekeeping or dog kennel licensing, both of which require neighbor notifications.

Residents who desire to make the community a place to thrive and be more sustainable should have the option to raise chickens without recourse.

People are raising backyard chickens successfully, and safely, all over the metro area and all over the country. Wayzata children should not be prohibited from learning about animals, where food comes from, or the responsibilities of raising animals.

I PROPOSE THE FOLLOWING- NO ROOSTERS ALLOWED, NO LIMIT ON THE NUMBER OF HENS ALLOWED, SHELTER/COOP MUST BE LOCATED IN THE BACKYARD, NO RESTRICTION BASED ON LOT SIZE.

It IS unfair to restrict families from raising chickens based on socioeconomic status and the size of their property. 

Let’s not let the great City of Wayzata be the one outlier on this issue.