By a vote of 5-1 at the Joint Public Safety Committee/Community Development Committee, the controversial Ordinance on Backyard Chickens is going to city council for a final vote.

For nearly 45 minutes, the committee heard a number of concerns from Bethlehem Health Director Kristen Wenrich, Deputy Police Chief Scott Meixell and Director of Community and Economic Development Laura Collins.

Wenrich stressed possible related health issues with having backyard chickens, most notably the avian flu and salmonella. She reminded everyone present that years ago, the city had allowed chickens but repealed the decision in 2006 due to avian influenza concerns.

Meixell said the animal control officer falls under his purview, and training relates primarily to complaints related to dogs and cats. Special training or a new officer would be needed to deal with chickens.

Such a departure from the norm would strain an already thin department which has seen a number of recent retirements.

Meixell also said the legislation has loopholes and vague language for dealing with resident complaints.

Adding to issues not addressed in the ordinance is the zoning of coops.

Collins said the city currently has a number of openings for zoning officers and many higher priority zoning files must be addressed first. The adoption of the ordinance would increase the challenges an overworked city staff is already facing.

The date for the ordinance vote has yet to be announced. As per council rules, it will need to be advertised for 10 days prior to the vote.

During the regular meeting, Collins spoke about the recycling situation the city is facing with Republic opting not to renew its contract with the city. Bidding is now closed. City officials will be reviewing them, but it is already clear that the bids are higher than what the current budget allows.

Mayor William Reynolds confirmed that the city’s 2023 budget will be presented in mid-November.