Local Hens

Somehow, I'm not quite sure exactly how, I get emails and even postal mail encouraging me to contact my elected officials about Issues of National Importance.

I will be the first to admit that a chicken ordinance for Pierre is not an Issue of National Importance. In fact, I think we would be hard pressed to make the case that it was of regional importance. What it is, however, is locally important.

The people of Pierre care about this issue and we must absolutely communicate this to our elected officials. Quite literally, there is no one else who will.

We expect Commission to do a first public reading of the ordinance soon. The PUCkR organizing group wants to be sure that every Commissioner and the Mayor is aware that there is strong citizen support for the ordinance before then. They can stop the ordinance moving forward at the first reading. We don't think they will but we'd rather not take that chance.

We anticipate that the Mayor will announce the date of the public hearing at the first reading. We will need EVERYONE to show up for public hearing. Please watch this blog or our Facebook page  for info about when the public hearing will be held.

Your presence will speak volumes.  If you don't, who will? It's not like we are planning on busing in the group from Onida who will advocate for chickens. It is up to us.

The chicken ordinance would provide that residents be permitted to keep up to 6 hens, no roosters. A predator proof coop must be provided on the property and must be set back 3 feet from the property line. Chickens have to remain on private property and be appropriately caged or restrained when off. All other noise, sanitation and nuisance ordinances apply.

This ordinance is clear and enforceable but will allow responsible people to keep chickens for food, for a hobby, or for companionship of a pet. If you think Pierre citizens should be able to keep chickens, voice your support today!