A Montville woman who wanted to change the town rules on owning chickens on residential property got her wish Tuesday night.
Tara Crossley always wanted chickens as pets. The teach her kids responsibility and her family can eat the eggs they lay, she said.
"They're fun and they're cool, there's a million different varieties, they're so great with kids."
But in the town of Montville, people couldn't own chickens if they have less than five acres of land.
Crossley didn't want to violate town rules, so she proposed a change to the town zoning regulations.
The town planner and her staff even helped revise it. The change would let residents to keep six hens on property less than five acres, but more than a half acre, as long as they're in a coop. No roosters would be allowed. They're often affiliated with noise and aggressive behavior.
The town's Planning & Zoning commission took up the issue Tuesday night and voted 7-1 in favor of the proposal. Five people spoke in favor and only one spoke against the proposal. That person was concerned about odor and flies from manure.
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"They can be dirty at times but they can also be profitable, save money," said Dustin Johnston, who lives in Uncasville.
"I think as long as they contain (them) and take good care of them, I have no objection," said James Riden, of Montville.
Some said they have friends who were already violating the rules.
"They have a little over three acres of land and you barely even hear them," said Bill Bond, who lives in Montville.
Crossley said she explored possible concerns about attracting predators, potential noise and cleanliness.
"I think it's good for everybody. Chicken poop is great manure for gardens. You can't say that about dog or cat manure."
Crossley has three roosters. She realizes under the amendment she will have to find a new home for hers.
