Proposal to Allow Chickens in Bangor

The Bangor City Council is hearing an ordinance Monday night to allow residents in the city to own chickens.

One of the proponents of the measure says it would allow people to gain more control over their food.

"We're just a group of concerned citizens in Bangor who want to increase our ability to produce our own food."

Thomas Young operates a farm in Bangor, but many of his fellow citizens live in areas where they can't have these kinds of animals.

Young is part of group trying to make a change.

"I'd like to see every household that has even a small lot be able to keep a limited number of backyard chickens."

The proposed ordinance would limit the number to six hens.

Still, there have been concerns. One is the noise. Young says that's not a problem since roosters will be off limits.

Another is odor, but he says six chickens produce less waste than the average large dog.

And then there is a fear of attracting rodents. The law would require the chickens be kept in a rodent proof enclosure.

Plus, Young has contacted several Maine communities that already allow chickens, like Orono, Portland and Falmouth.

"They have unanimously stated that there have been minimal problems if any."

Young says the purpose of this proposal is to give people access to healthier food, without fear of contamination, and that uses less energy to produce.

"Everyone I've discussed these issues with and I've encountered within our movement is really interested in more sustainably producing healthy local food."

The proposal is scheduled for the first reading before the City Council Monday night then will be sent to the Government Operations Committee.

Mayor Richard Stone says at first glance, he'd like to see the issue move forward but maybe for the first year, only allow a limited number of people to own chickens.

If it goes well, then it could be expanded.