Poultry fans seeking change in city ordinance

CLOVIS — Local poultry enthusiasts are crowing about changes. A movement is under way to repeal long-standing limitations on poultry ownership within Clovis’ city limits.

The ordinance was enacted in 1954 and restricts the ownership of poultry within 100 feet of any property line.

The Animal Control Task Force heard from some who want to change the law at its meeting on Thursday.

“Chickens are a real novelty. It’s something that people can enjoy and benefit from,” said Patrick Kircher, Roosevelt County’s extension agent who is also interim extension agent for Curry County.

But he cautioned that a change to the ordinance could “certainly get out of control and cause a nuisance” if chicken owners are not responsible.

Some problems, Kircher said, include the potential for diseases and the attraction that poultry would provide to predators such as dogs, foxes and coyotes.

Despite the concerns, Kircher said removing or changing the poultry ordinance could be a “workable system” as long as the city “kept things in check” and had clear consequences and boundaries.

Susan Wade, a Clovis real estate agent, said she believes a city that welcomes chickens could benefit the housing market.

She said she chooses to live outside the city limits so she can keep a small flock of hens. Allowing chickens could open up “possibilities for other school districts and more housing choices,” she said.

Wade was one of four who spoke in support of chickens in the city during the meeting.

For those opposed to livestock in their neighborhoods, she said homeowners always have options.

“I do think that people will pick HOA (homeowner association) neighborhoods if they feel strongly about livestock,” she said.

The task force has no authority to change city ordinance, but it does make recommendations to the city commission.

Its next meeting is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. July 19 at Clovis City Hall.