Tim Ryan, tryan@wolfrivermedia.com
Nearly three years after the Shawano Common Council rejected a proposed ordinance that would have allowed backyard chickens within city limits, officials are finding chickens back on their plate.
Scott Krueger, a dietitian and Shawano resident, first brought the chicken proposal to the plan commission in May 2014.
The commission voted 8-1 to overturn the city’s ban on urban poultry and adopt a new ordinance allowing up to four chickens.
The idea was roasted by the Common Council, which voted 4-2 against the proposal in June.
Krueger returned to the commission Wednesday for another try.
“I have two kids who really would like this and I’ve spoken to several people within the community that wish to present their thoughts on this as well,” he told the commission.
City Administrator Brian Knapp said the defeated ordinance could be dusted off and brought back for a second look.
The commission agreed to do that at its May meeting.
Several seats on the commission and the council have changed hands since 2014, along with the mayor’s office, now held by Jeanne Cronce, leaving open the possibility for a different outcome this around.
The ordinance as drafted in 2014 would require chicken owners to get a permit from the city and approval in writing from their neighbors.
It would allow up to four chickens, but no roosters, on a single-family detached dwelling.
Sanitary enclosures would be required that would have to be kept clean, ventilated and predator-proof.
The proposed ordinance also sets down regulations for the size and location of chicken coops and requires feed to be kept in rodent- and predator-proof containers.
Permits would be good for one year and could be revoked by the Common Council on the recommendation of the city clerk or building inspector.
Krueger said after the meeting he was optimistic the ordinance could be passed this time.
“I think there are a lot of people in the community that are in favor of this, and I think people have brought that to the council’s attention,” he said. “I think this should be seen as something the community wants and not just one or two people.”
Krueger said he expects to present to a petition from supporters before the council takes up the question, likely at its June meeting.