City Council Minutes 2013 08 06 - Laserfiche WebLink

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City Council Meeting Minutes August 6, 2013 Page 5 of 16 Council member Jasiak did not support written consent from neighboring property owners. She expressed interest in protection from mistreatment of backyard hens. Mayor Muckle asked why the City would not license backyard hens. Police Chief Goodman stated with the exception of dogs no other pets are licensed in the City. He felt the licensing and inspection process should not be a police function. Mayor Muckle inquired about the coop design to protect against predators. Planner III McMillan stated the City could make recommendation of design and placement of coops. He noted this is currently done for sheds. Council member Sackett appreciated those who expressed an interest in having backyard hens. He reported on polling residents at Coal Creek Ranch and everyone he spoke with was against backyard hens. He could not support backyard hens. Mayor Pro Tem Dalton opposed licensing hens, or written consent from neighbors. He felt the 4 foot fence issue would have to be resolved. He opposed prohibiting outdoor slaughter and supported up to six hens. With respect to predators, he felt free -range chickens would provide a temptation, but did not support square footage for free -range chickens. Council member Keany supported staff bringing forward an ordinance. He addressed the 10 foot setbacks and felt there should be some consideration for small yards. He felt the structure of a coop should be compliant with accessory buildings. Council member Loo opposed 5 foot setbacks and asked if offset slotted fencing would enable chickens to get out. Mayor Muckle thanked the Urban Hen Coalition for their expertise on urban hens. He supported an ordinance with performance standards. His primary concern centered on the predator and free -range chickens. Council member Jasiak thanked the Urban Hen Coalition and the Sustainability Advisory Board. She requested predator information be put on the City's web site. Council member Yarnell voiced her opposition to outdoor slaughtering. Police Chief explained there is currently no limitation on processing wild game on one's property. PUBLIC COMMENTS Karen Wilkinson, Lincoln Avenue, Louisville, CO addressed the socialization of chickens and stated there is not a specific number for a flock. She explained chickens are social animals and it is not possible to introduce one chicken at a time to a backyard flock because of the pecking order. She noted chickens do not live as long as dogs or cats