The debate over urban chickens is underway in the town of Tecumseh.
A public open house was held Wednesday night to gather feedback from the public as the town prepares to consider the plan.
Director of Corporate Services, Laura Moy says they've been getting both positive and negative input.
"We've had people coming in, making some inquiries about the program, getting to understand it. Common concerns are noise, odours, things of that nature," she says.
The proposal would allow homeowners to have up to six hens over the age of four months. Residents with properties of more than 10,000 square feet would be allowed additional birds, one hen per an additional 3,000 square feet. Roosters are not permitted under the program.
Residents would also have to register with the town, pay an annual permit fee of $25 and have a property inspection conducted.
Tecumseh resident Alberto Deppi seen at an urban chickens open house held on November 20, 2019 (Photo by AM800's Zander Broeckel)
Tecumseh resident Alberto Deppi has had chickens on his property for 10 years and says he's a hit with the neighbours.
"My neighbours are happy to hear the chickens singing. Matter of fact, people are coming with their children to visit me in the summer time because I've got a little pond on my property. There are not only chickens, there are ducks," he says.
Deppi says when taken care of properly, chickens are no different than a dog or cat.
"I built a little house myself and every morning I go there and clean it, I keep it nice and clean. Matter of fact, when people come over they say it's like a resort of the chickens because you'd have to see, it's a beautiful place. So I've got no problems," he says.
Deppi adds if if chicken owners are responsible there shouldn't be any problems.
A survey on the proposal is available on the town's website until November 22. CLICK HERE to find that survey.
Tecumseh council will discuss the issue at its December 10 meeting and if approved, the program would start as a two-year pilot project.