Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Backyard Chickens topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Residents and council raise questions as Star Valley Ranch weighs allowing backyard chickens
Summary
Public commenters and several council members discussed whether to allow backyard chickens in Star Valley Ranch; opponents urged legal review of CC&Rs while supporters described benefits. Councilman Rok said the issue is under research; no ordinance change was adopted at this meeting.
STAR VALLEY RANCH — Residents and council members debated whether to allow backyard chickens in town during the Star Valley Ranch regular meeting on Sept. 10.
During the public-comment portion, Mr. Siddoway spoke in opposition to permitting chickens and advised the council to consult an attorney about whether the town could legally supersede existing covenants, conditions and restrictions (CC&Rs). Multiple residents spoke in favor: Ms. Shanks described benefits she has learned about chicken care; her mother (Mrs. Shanks), Mrs. Tholen and Mrs. Asher also said they support allowing chickens and urged the council to consider resident experience.
Why it matters: zoning or code changes that allow backyard poultry would affect private property rules, neighborhood covenants and town enforcement. Opponents said the town should confirm legal authority before acting; supporters said regulated allowances can provide food and small-scale agricultural benefits.
Council response and next steps: Councilman Rok said the chicken issue "is being researched thoroughly to make sure it is fair before any decision is made." The meeting record shows discussion only; council did not introduce or vote on an ordinance to change poultry rules at this session. The matter remains under study and may return to a future agenda for additional council consideration.
The meeting recorded public comment and council remarks on the subject but contained no formal motion to change code language related to chickens.
