01-14-13 Health & Public Safety, Zoning & Annexation, Personnel & Finance

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• HEALTH &PUBLIC SAFETY ZONING&ANNEXATION JANUARY 14,2013 PERSONNEL & FINANCE Committee Members Present: Henry Davis, Jr., Valerie Schey, Dr. Fred Ferlic, Dr. David Varner, Oliver Davis, Gavin Ferlic, Karen White Other Council Present: Tim Scott, Derek Dieter Others Present: Kathy Cekanski-Farrand, Erin Blasko, Susan Gruetman, Karen Coleman, Scott Palmer, Catherine Toppel, Christa Nayder, Catherine Pettijohn Agenda: Bill No. 74-11 &Bill No. 64-12 "Urban Chickens" Two separate bills, Bill No. 74-11 &Bill No. 64-12,both addressing the "Urban Chicken" proposal were scheduled to be heard in a joint committee hearing of the Personnel &Finance and Health and Public Safety Committees. Dr. Fred Ferlic chaired the proceedings which he began by calling upon Christa Nayder to report on the bills determination before the Area Plan Commission(APC). Christa reported that the APC approved the technical aspects of the zoning requirements in the bill,but deferred a policy recommendation to allow keeping chickens in the city to the Council. Council Attorney Kathy Cekanski-Farrand interjected that if no action were taken by the Council the zoning changes would go into effect by default. Councilmember Henry Davis Jr,the strongest proponent for allowing "urban chickens"made the formal presentation. He started by saying the pros of allowing chickens to be raised in backyards far outweigh the cons. He said approval would add South Bend to a growing list of forward thinking cities emphasizing sustainability and"green initiatives." Appropriately regulated by the location, size, and maintenance of backyard coops any fears of nuisance or negative effects on property values would be benign. Henry also promoted the educational benefits for kids teaching them responsibility and awareness of healthy eating. Councilmember Scott who along with Henry co-sponsored the bills echoed Henry's comments. Councilmember Dr. Fred Ferlic then opened the floor to members of the public wishing to speak in favor of the bills. Four supporters spoke. Susan Gruetman tried to allay fears of declining property values saying there is no evidence to warrant that claim. Karen Coleman representing a group called the Urban Chicken Alliance said the group will help the city implement and monitor compliance. Scott Palmer and Catherine Pettijohn followed in turn touting the environmental and health aspects of allowing"Urban Chickens." No one was present to speak in opposition.