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City Council <br /> Study Session Summary <br /> July 09,2013 <br /> Page 3 of 6 <br /> Councilmember Loo is concerned about sprinklers in Townhomes. Typically <br /> those areas have higher density and more narrow roads. She would like to see <br /> sprinklers mandated in duplexes and above. Also concerned about "houses <br /> behind houses" (living quarters in buildings behind houses) <br /> Troy Ross stated that all referrals and projects go before the Fire District and <br /> every street is approved by the Fire District. Houses behind houses has not <br /> been an issue yet has potential to be. <br /> Councilmember Dalton commented that the primary purpose of the Building <br /> Code is safety and that we should be aware of energy efficiency mandates that <br /> increase costs. <br /> The Mayor welcomed Ken and thanked him for the presentation. <br /> Update/Discussion — Urban Agriculture— Backyard Hens <br /> The Mayor reminded the public that we do not make decisions or give direction at <br /> Study Sessions. This meeting is to listen and learn. <br /> Karen Wilkinson said she is the informal spokesperson for the Urban Hen <br /> Coalition. <br /> Troy Russ gave a brief history of the backyard chicken issue in Louisville: in 2009 <br /> city Council directed staff not to advance an ordinance related to chickens. <br /> Currently, chicken keeping is allowed in Agricultural and Restricted Rural <br /> Residential zone districts. <br /> Louisville Sustainability Advisory Board researched other local municipalities and <br /> developed a white paper. The white paper identifies opportunities, challenges <br /> and best practices. <br /> Benefits: <br /> • Proponents claim backyard chicken eggs are fresher and taste better <br /> • Eggs from backyard chickens are healthier <br /> • Urban chickens provide an opportunity for organic chemical free food <br /> • Local food production results in fewer trips to the store <br /> • Backyard chickens provide opportunities for hands-on education. <br /> Challenges: <br /> • Nuisances such as noise and odor <br /> • Additional Code Enforcement Resource Requirements <br /> • Potential Health risk <br /> • Coops can be eyesores, potentially reducing property values <br /> • Rodents and predators may be attracted <br /> Best practices: <br />