http://buffalonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20130123/CITYANDREGION/130129698/1003
Amherst is a great place to live. And the citizens are somewhat resistant to change. But the Town Board carefully and thoughtfully diliberated over this "permitting" amendment to the town ordinance. What they came up with - in my opinion - is a fair and resposponsible approach to allowing our residents the opportunity to apply for a "special use" permit for raising up to 6 hens.
The permitting process will be difficult enough to dissuade any drive-by would-be owners from just going out and buying some chicks. Yet the process is not so consuming that any reasonable, responsible hobbyist cannot easily obtain the permit.
Congratulations to the Amherst Town Board. Specifically board member Mark Manna who worked tirelessly in support of this amendment. But also board member Jay Anderson and Stephen Sanders.
With the passage of this amendment, residents can submit proposals for their own chickens. Neighbors' input will be solicited and expected so that the community remains a big part of the decision.
The whole process is admittedly way overblown, but this will certainly pave the way for this popular nationwide trend to find a foothold in our otherwise conservitive community of Amherst.
Amherst is a great place to live. And the citizens are somewhat resistant to change. But the Town Board carefully and thoughtfully diliberated over this "permitting" amendment to the town ordinance. What they came up with - in my opinion - is a fair and resposponsible approach to allowing our residents the opportunity to apply for a "special use" permit for raising up to 6 hens.
The permitting process will be difficult enough to dissuade any drive-by would-be owners from just going out and buying some chicks. Yet the process is not so consuming that any reasonable, responsible hobbyist cannot easily obtain the permit.
Congratulations to the Amherst Town Board. Specifically board member Mark Manna who worked tirelessly in support of this amendment. But also board member Jay Anderson and Stephen Sanders.
With the passage of this amendment, residents can submit proposals for their own chickens. Neighbors' input will be solicited and expected so that the community remains a big part of the decision.
The whole process is admittedly way overblown, but this will certainly pave the way for this popular nationwide trend to find a foothold in our otherwise conservitive community of Amherst.
