Public Hearing on Backyard Chickens on April 25

A public hearing will be held at the Village Board meeting on Monday, April 25 at 6 p.m. to gain feedback from Union Grove residents about whether chickens should be allowed to be kept in the backyard of residential properties. The matter was initially brought forth at an Administration Committee meeting on January 10 by residents who expressed that allowing backyard chickens would be helpful for chicken participating in 4H programs. Currently Village ordinances prohibit “poultry, pigeons or fowl, or any animal raised for fur bearing purposes, or any livestock, including, but not limited to horses, cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, or swine.” Individuals attending the public hearing will have the opportunity to give feedback and ask questions on this topic. After collecting feedback from the community, the Village Board will decide whether to proceed with having an ordinance drafted to allow backyard chickens.