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OUR VIEW: Let chickens roost on our democracy

We love civic engagement by citizens, exercising their First Amendment right to petition the government for a redress of grievances. As we’ve stated before, the First Amendment is even more important than the Second. And we’re seeing it in action right here in Cloquet.

Recently, a local resident approached the Cloquet City Council about modifying its ordinances to allow chickens on small lots within the city. Currently, farm animals are allowed only in certain zones on lots of 10 acres or more.

“Chickens aren’t just pets to us. It’s a way of living,” Emily Tracy told the city council at its last meeting. She mentioned that an online petition has quickly collected more than 1,000 signatures, surprising even her over the enthusiasm for backyard chickens.

We agree. A limited number of backyard chickens within the city limits isn’t going to hurt anyone. Duluth and Minneapolis allow backyard chickens, so urban density doesn’t seem to be a problem. Those cities require a permit, and in Minneapolis, only hens are allowed (no roosters), and there’s a limit of five.

All the concerns related to farm animals in residential areas can easily be regulated. No one wants a rooster crowing at 5 a.m. right outside their window, so limiting the animals to hens only is fair. Feed bins should be stored in rodent-resistant containers, and if the smell becomes offensive to neighbors, the chicken permit can be revoked.

Of course, there will be an additional burden to city staff to enforce the regulations. Cloquet no longer has animal control, so it would be up to city staff to conduct inspections and follow up on complaints and ensure compliance. There may be additional work for the police force, as it seems most complaints are directed through 911. And an online survey, even with an impressive number of signatures, should not sway the decision-making process — online petitions are notoriously unreliable. Still, support for backyard chickens seems strong in Cloquet, and it’s worth revisiting the issue.

We recommend a reasonable license fee, to offset the expense of enforcement, and we trust the planning commission to come up with a feasible plan. We also trust that city council members will actually vote on the issue this time.

This is what is meant by the American experiment. An issue that barely affects most people, but significantly affects some people, and can be solved with careful thought and planning. Evidence that in America, it’s not “us” vs. “them.” It’s just “us.”

 
 
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