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Don’t Delay Action On Chicken Rules

How difficult is it to regulate chickens within a municipality? Ask Moundsville City Council. It can be as tough as an old rooster, they have learned.

After weeks of discussing complaints about chickens being kept inside city limits, then hearing from people who argue the fowl can be beneficial to owners, council members finally agreed on common-sense rules a few weeks ago. In essence, a proposed ordinance would allow people whose property encompasses less than an acre to keep no more than six chickens. Those with an acre or more could have as many as 12 of the birds. The plan also includes provisions relating to noise and odor.

But on Tuesday, seemingly as council members were ready to proceed, action came to a screeching halt. Perhaps members of the planning commission should examine the proposed ordinance to ensure it does not conflict with the municipal zoning code, it was suggested. And it might be a good idea for West Virginia University law students who have been working with the city to take a look at the measure, it was added.

So the ordinance was tabled, pending a committee meeting on July 12.

Of course, local officials need to dot all their “i’s” and cross all their “t’s” in enacting new ordinances. But this one seems reasonably simple.

If it conflicts with existing zoning rules, those regulations can be changed. And it is doubtful it conflicts with any state or federal laws.

Chickens have been on the minds of Moundsville City Council members far too long this year. As soon as possible after the July 12 meeting, council should act on the ordinance with an up-or-down vote — and move on to more pressing matters.

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