Longmont, CO needs your help!

Hello!

The city of Longmont has a chicken ordinance on the table. Initially the council supported it 5 to 2, but two weeks ago our Planning and Zoning commission came out against the ordinance. At this point we only have one council member who firmly (openly) supports the ordinance. The others think we are a tiny special interest group (not worth their effort) and or that the legalization of chickens will put undue stress on our already over taxed animal control officers.

Until recently the supporters of the ordinance had not officially organized as we thought the ordinance would pass (as it has in neighboring communities over the last few years). However we now feel as the burdon of proof is on us to show the council that we are (a) not a tiny special interest group, (b) that chickens are good neighbors, and (c) that chickens won't be the end of animal control. 

Some things that we are considering include: starting a petition (hard copy and online) to demonstrate support; creating a movies showcasing the positives of legal urban chickens in neighboring cities and a few underground chickens in our city; holding public educational meetings; and starting an online group and blog (these last two items are comnplete). 

Here is a link to our blog:

http://www.longmont-urbanhens.blogspot.com/

I am posting here today in hopes of getting outside advice and support from those who are experienced in the "field." We'd especially love positive ideas for addressing the concerns with animal control. 

Warmly,

 Alison