Chicken discussion tabled by Odessa council

ODESSA- A discussion to allow chickens within town limits was tabled by council at the regular meeting Monday, May 9 until a proposal was made or petitioned.

Vivianne Poe, an Odessa resident, said that she understood the council’s concerns.

“Good coop management could be enforced,” Poe said.

“Raising chickens is about more than just making an omelet,” she added. “There are some breeds that are like pets and are docile.”

Mayor William Crossley countered Poe’s point.

“We hear you, but we can’t even get people to register their dogs and cats,” Crossley said.

Deep bedding was a suggestion that was discussed.

If there were enforcement it would fall on volunteers or law officials to make sure the coops were safe, clean and blocked out predators.

“I understand why you want the chickens, but people allow their dogs to run loose, which could get them killed,” local Laura Estes said.

A community coop outside of city limits was suggested. Talk of a trial run was brought up, but council would need volunteers to help.

Council suggested a proposal or a petition to get the issue on a voting ballot.

If voted on by the public, council would no longer have a say in the matter.

Lynn Schmidt had a question about allowing RV’s to park on his Fourth Avenue lot for 1-3 days. He did not want to put any hook-ups on the property yet.

The building permit for a new roof at the residence of 305 South Alder Street was approved.

Shirley Johnson was granted a 30-day extension, after a plan of action, to clean up her property.

The town received $275,000 through the Washington Military Department. This will help fund the planning of using water from the Columbia River for the town of Odessa.

Anthony Paszkeicz reported that the water was turned on at the park. The tourist bathrooms are open.