JC Post
At its Tuesday meeting, the Junction City Commission will consider an ordinance change that would allow for chickens to be kept in residential back yards.
In his memo to commissioners, City Manager Allen Dinkel noted the issue was considered in March 2022 with no action taken. But a request during the public comments period of their Feb. 7 meeting, commissioners again were asked to consider the request.
Dinkel said there are a number of issues to be considered, including setbacks from property lines, the number of chickens that could be kept, animal control concerns and neighborhood permission.
"If chickens are allowed there should be adequate restrictions," Dinkel said in his memo. "I am concerned about opening other issues such as ducks, rabbits and goats but do understand those who would like to have chickens in their yard."
He added that it is more common for cities in the eastern half of the state to allow backyard chickens, noting Emporia recently adopting an ordinance allowing them to be kept.
In other business, the commission will:
• Hear a 2022 crime statistic presentation from Police Chief John Lamb.
• Discuss a number of upcoming public works projects.
• Enter into executive session for the preliminary discussion of real estate acquisition.
The meeting is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m.
Cover image courtesy Pixabay