City Council Faces Health Risks of Backyard Chickens

During a recent city council meeting, resident Barbara Moody raised significant concerns regarding the health risks associated with backyard chickens. Citing a brochure from the CDC and a CNN Health article from January 2023, Moody highlighted the dangers of salmonella bacteria, which can thrive on chickens' beaks, feathers, and feet. She emphasized that backyard flocks have been linked to over 1,200 salmonella cases across multiple states in the past year, a figure she believes is likely underreported.

Moody urged council members to consider the long-term implications of their decisions, warning that issues related to backyard chickens could escalate in the future. She referenced ongoing discussions in nearby Des Moines, where city officials are contemplating stricter regulations on backyard chickens due to rising complaints from residents.

Her comments reflect a growing concern among community members about the potential health risks posed by backyard poultry, urging the council to weigh these factors carefully in their deliberations.