Paxton joint committee backs nonbinding referendum on backyard chickens

At a May 13 joint meeting of Paxton’s Community Committee and the License, Permit, Zoning, and Insurance Committee, aldermen voted to recommend that the City Council consider a nonbinding referendum on allowing chickens on residentially zoned property.

Alderman Geiken moved "to recommend to the City Council regarding the use of a non-binding referendum that pertains to the keeping of chickens on residentially zoned property within the corporate limits of the City of Paxton," a motion seconded by Alderman Larson and approved on a 3–1 roll call: Ayes — Larson, Geiken and Withers; No — Reinhart. The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. and adjourned at 6:55 p.m.

Alderman Larson outlined proposed ordinance guidelines that she said could be included if the city proceeds: chicken coops set 30 feet from other residences, a $50 annual fee, hens only, a maximum number of hens (not specified in the meeting minutes), and requirement for double containment. Larson also suggested hiring an "Urban Chicken Liaison" to assist police with applications, inspections and education classes.

Several residents supported permitting chickens under rules, arguing it "there is no odor, it gets children outdoors to care for them, they are pets, and the experience," and that a formal ordinance would allow the city to manage residents who keep fowl informally. Opponents raised concerns including odors, potential salmonella outbreaks, attracting wildlife, and that some neighbors moved to Paxton to avoid close proximity to livestock.

The committee’s recommendation is advisory: the nonbinding referendum — if approved by the City Council — would gauge voter sentiment but would not itself amend the City Code. The recommendation will be transmitted to the City Council for consideration at a future meeting (date not specified in the committee minutes).