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Residents urge council to keep chickens out of suburban yards, cite pests, odors and noise
Summary
Multiple residents during public comment urged the council not to allow backyard chickens, arguing they attract pests and predators, cause odors and noise, and create public-health risks; speakers asked the council to retain existing restrictions rather than grant variances.
During the June 11 public comment period, several residents urged the Schererville Town Council not to allow backyard chickens in residential neighborhoods.
Kristin Nance, identified herself and said chickens belong on farms rather than in suburban yards. She told the council chickens attract pests such as flies and rodents, bring predators like foxes and coyotes, and spread diseases such as salmonella and Campylobacter via droppings and feathers. Nance also raised concerns about odors from soiled bedding and daytime noise that could affect neighbors and shift workers who sleep during the day.
Another resident said that if the council allows chickens it should be limited to less-dense, rural areas, noting Lake County is suburban and suggesting people wanting chickens should move to more rural jurisdictions. Kevin Ors (surname as stated in the public comment) said changes would likely affect only a small number of residents and questioned whether the council should alter existing ordinances without broad justification.
Speakers emphasized existing noise and pest concerns and asked the council to preserve the current ordinance rather than grant variances or changes that would allow backyard chickens. The council did not take action during the meeting; these comments were delivered during the floor comment period.
