I am petitioning for a change to the current by-law that prohibits backyard chickens in our community.

Currently Formosa, Teeswater and Mildmay communities have a bylaw not allowing backyard chickens. Fellow residents in these communities that have chickens were given a letter stating we need to get rid of all our chickens. Or further enforcement action will be taken.

This decision comes at a time when many families are struggling to make ends meet in today’s economy.Allowing backyard chickens offers numerous environmental benefits, such as pest control, disease management, and food waste recycling.They also provide educational opportunities for our children and adults too.

Other communities allow for hens only including PortElgin , Caledon , Toronto etc. Why is it that many other municipalities close to the GTA are allowed to have chickens but small rule communities like Formosa, Teeswater and Mildmay not allowed?

This is how many community members that are able to feed their families in these tough economic times with having their own chickens.
Many cities have embraced this practice, recognizing its benefits in promoting sustainable food sources and enhancing residents' quality of life.

In communities large and small it is essential for us to find ways to enhance our self-sufficiency and resilience and knowledge of food. Allowing residents to keep chickens would contribute positively to our local food security, enabling individuals and families to produce a sustainable source of nutritious food right in their backyards.

Even if the bylaw was changed to allow a limit on how many chickens you're allowed.
( 4-6 hens ) This would be a lot more beneficial than to not allow chickens. Allowing residents to keep chickens would foster self-sufficiency, enhance food security, and reflect the values of a rural community that encourages responsible agricultural practices.

Thank you for considering my perspective on this important issue.
Thank you for you're support.

Fellow Formosa ON, Resident

Shania Turner