During a recent city council meeting, officials discussed Ordinance 24-14, which aims to prohibit the keeping of roosters within the city limits of Bridal. This ordinance was prompted by numerous complaints from residents regarding the excessive noise produced by roosters, which has been described as more disruptive than typical domestic animal sounds.

City staff, including representatives from the police and community development departments, highlighted the challenges of enforcing existing noise ordinances, which do not specifically address animal noises and rely on subjective definitions of what constitutes \"disturbing\" sounds. The proposed ordinance would provide a clear and enforceable rule against keeping roosters, while still allowing residents to keep hens for egg and meat production.

The council considered tabling the ordinance for further discussion, with some members expressing the need for more data on the number of complaints and the impact of roosters on the community. Residents were invited to share their experiences, leading to a lively debate.

Mindy Bechtold, a local resident, voiced her frustration with the noise from nearby roosters, stating that unlike dogs, roosters cannot be trained to control their crowing. Conversely, another resident argued for the necessity of roosters for protecting hens from predators, citing the increase in wildlife due to urban development.

Victor Sherwood, another community member, emphasized the importance of having at least one rooster for sustainable poultry farming, arguing that banning them would hinder self-sufficiency in food production.

The council acknowledged the complexity of the issue, balancing the need for quiet neighborhoods with the rights of residents to engage in agricultural practices. The discussion highlighted the cultural significance of chicken-keeping in the area, with some council members expressing a desire to avoid excessive government regulation while ensuring community harmony.

As the council deliberates, the future of rooster ownership in Bridal remains uncertain, pending further investigation and community input.