RAPID CITY, S.D. — No final decision was made, but the Rapid City Council continued discussions Monday night on a plan to allow hens within city limits.
This issue has been brought to the council before, but this time it is underlined with worries about impacts of COVID-19 on food supply.
Pros and cons were voiced in Monday night’s meeting including the impact it could have on adjoining residences.
Council Ward 3 member Darla Drew who is leading the charge, says she believes including a clause which gives neighbors a say on private property, is a slippery slope.
The city’s legal and finance had put together a pilot plan last week that included a license being needed from the local Humane Society, the ability to have up to four hens at a licensed property, making roosters illegal and housing hens in a secure, predator-proof, well-ventilated structure.
No final decisions were made, but council members agreed that more exploration and research is needed on the topic before moving forward.
