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Residents urge Owensboro commission to allow backyard chickens
Summary
During the public forum several residents asked the commission to consider changing city rules to permit a small number of backyard chickens, citing nutrition, education and family benefits. No policy action was taken at the meeting.
During the open public forum at the June 17 Owensboro City Commission meeting several residents asked commissioners to consider allowing backyard chickens within city limits.
Isabelle Burquette, who identified her address and said she lives outside the city limits, told commissioners Owensboro is "the only city in the state of Kentucky who don't allow backyard chickens" and asked them to research the issue and consider permitting a small number (she suggested four to six birds). "This small step helps support the health and gives residents a way to provide fresh, nutritious eggs for the families," Burquette said.
Tatiana Rose Burkett, who also gave the address 3537 Cannonade Loop North, echoed the request and asked commissioners to "please vote to make a change."
Abigail Matthews, a homeschool parent at 200 Fremont Drive, said allowing backyard chickens would give children responsibility and educational opportunities. "We would love for both of us to be able to give our kids the opportunity to grow up with animals of all sorts," Matthews said.
Trey Matthews, who also listed 200 Tremont Drive, described hands‑on experience with poultry on family property and said the activity helps children learn where food comes from. "It gives them an idea of, like, my food doesn't come from the refrigerator," he said.
No member of the commission announced a vote, direction to staff or next steps on the topic during the meeting. The public comments concluded and the commission moved to adjourn.
Why it matters: Residents framed the change as low‑cost and educational, and said comparable policies exist in larger Kentucky cities. The commission did not take action during the meeting; further consideration would require a staff report or an ordinance change if commissioners choose to pursue it.
