INNISFAIL - The town has finally released its public engagement strategy to determine if Innisfailians want pet chickens legalized in the community.
In a Sept. 19 news release, the town noted the issue of urban or pet chickens being allowed at private Innisfail residences has been on the minds of the public since last spring.
Last May longtime Innisfailian and pet chicken lover Lisa Reid appealed to council to change the current Animal Control Bylaw that prohibits the keeping of urban or "backyard" chickens. Since then the town has heard both formally and informally from residents who both support and oppose the keeping of urban chickens in Innisfail, said the news release.
As part of the Town of Innisfail's ongoing overall review of the Animal Control Bylaw, a six-part public survey has been released online at innisfail.ca/chickens. The survey will be conducted between Sept. 19 and Oct. 17. Citizens will also receive a copy of the survey with their next utility bill. Completed surveys can be returned to the town office at 4943 53 St., faxed (403-227-4045), or emailed to [email protected].
All feedback received will eventually be presented to town council, which will decide to either allow urban chickens or keep them banned from the community.
The online survey page also provides general information on the pet chicken issue, including a link to more information from the Poultry Research Centre and the Government of Alberta, which has the guide, Raising Chickens in Alberta: A Guide for Small Flock Owners for both current and prospective chicken owners. The town notes the guide provides an in-depth overview of the various tasks and responsibilities associated with chicken ownership.
The release of the survey follows the tabling of a draft Urban Chicken Bylaw at town council on Aug. 20, which included a recommendation by administration to move it to first reading.
However, following lengthy discussion, several council members did not want to give the draft bylaw first reading, arguing the public might interpret it as council wanting to move forward with the issue.
Instead, administration was directed to develop a public consultation plan, one that was tentatively planned to be unveiled at the annual Fall Registration Night on Sept. 4. But that plan was changed and the public consultation strategy was not unveiled until Sept. 19.
