The Sylva Herald has recently announced that new livestock ordinances have been proposed for the town of Sylva. The new ordinance would limit chicken ownership to non-sustainable flock sizes, (10 hens and no roosters) and limit food independence for the people.
Article: http://www.thesylvaherald.com/news/article_322ed4a6-7ecb-11ec-b652-7f4cf3e11234.html
"Where the minimum lot size meets or exceeds 7,000 square feet, up to 10 hens are allowed with an approved Use Permit, subject to meeting certain standards. Roosters are only permitted within the low density and medium density zoning districts. Chickens are permitted on lots with single-family homes only and must be kept in a coop and pen, or portable chicken tractors. Chickens must be secured in the chicken coop during non-daylight hours."
Reasons to oppose the new livestock ordinance proposals:
- The newly proposed livestock ordinances would affect every chicken owner in Sylva city limits
- Egg-laying chickens are an important source of food for many people throughout the community.
- Local chicken owners provide the community with a healthier, more fresh alternative to store-bought, factory-produced eggs.
- The freedom for Sylva residents to maintain a chicken flock is an important element in food independence.
- A progressive community should be encouraging and supportive of food independence amongst its residents.
- Changing the current livestock ordinances would restrict residents from producing their own food.
- Home-raised chickens reduce packaging waste
- Home-raised chickens can eliminate household and commercial food waste.
- Home-raised chickens provide an interactive and educational experience which connects the community with their food sources.
- Confining chickens to a coop or tractor would be required.
- Home-raised chickens are fun, sweet, and entertaining for all ages.
The JAM chicken flock of Downtown Sylva, North Carolina are a local treasure. Many times per day, people visit the JAM Flock to feed them, play and interact. The JAM Flock experience is constructive and educational. The flock also provides endless laughs and entertainment for visitors.
Now, they are proposing a new ordinance which would cause us to get rid of our flock. Please sign our petition today and help us fight the new proposal. All we need are your signatures to help preserve these mystical creatures! Show your support so this wonderful, wacky petting zoo can stay where they are loved!
