12-14-2023-Planning Commission Packet

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MINUTES PLANNING COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 14, 2023 7 Commissioner Thorson stated that the more descriptive the language could be the better. Mr. Amarr referenced all the predator animals that exist in the city. Chair Johnson noted that scent, hygiene, etc. would fall under the category of nuisance. She acknowledged that there will be lost chickens because of the wild animals that exist. She noted that Little Canada is an island in terms of allowing chickens and the other communities are not having issues, therefore the City is trying to find the right way to approach this issue and allow the keeping of chickens for those that are passionate about it. Commissioner Buesing asked if staff reviewed the ordinances from all the other cities and whether lot size is specified. Commissioner Thorson commented that it would be smart to define nuisance and list those elements. Commissioner Buesing commented that perhaps the coops should not be allowed in side yards because of the small width of some yards. Commissioner Boe-Schmidt commented that not everyone has a large backyard, and their side yard is larger, so in that instance, the side yard would be allowed. Commissioner Buesing stated that he would prefer to require the coop to be within ten feet of a home, to keep it away from other homes. Commissioner Boe-Schmidt commented that there would be a permitting process, so the plan would be reviewed. Commissioner Buesing stated that if the Code allows, someone could have a coop 12 feet from a neighbor’s pool. Commissioner Boe-Schmidt commented that perhaps the neighbor with the chickens does not like the pool. She did not favor limiting the location to only backyards. Commissioner Buesing suggested making the setback larger for a side yard. Chair Johnson stated that the setback could be increased larger, contrary to the results of the survey. Commissioner Buesing suggested increasing the side yard setback.