By Eileen Buckley
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wbfo/local-wbfo-847901.mp3
Buffalo, NY – The Buffalo Common Council has delayed on a vote on the City's new chicken coop law.
Erie County's Health Commissioner has issued a list of concerns to the Buffalo Common Council in regards to a law that would allow City residents to raise chicken.
Doctor Anthony Billittier outlined several modifications he would like to see in the new law. The bill drafted by lawmakers does address smells, noise and avoiding a potential rat problem.
But Billittier says it needs to include more direction for waste, drainage, and stronger wording on prohibiting the sale of eggs and chicken meat. Billittier says as a health leader, he is also concerned with public health and potential diseases, such as the bird flu.
"That is a real concern and that is one of the issues we outlined in the letter. In some countries, where people and animals cohabitant we notice diseases can be spread from animals to humans that is why we must make sure this is being done very carefully," said Billittier
But Billittier stressed he is in no way trying to stop the law. Instead he wants to provide answers of how to create the best law to deal with the issue. A West Side woman wants to raise chickens in her backyard, but current city rules do not allow chicken coops.
Buffalo Common Council member David Rivera tells WBFO News the vote will be delayed for two weeks. He says they asked Billittier for his input and want to take the time to incorporate his suggestions. Rivera says they want to make it a better ordinance.
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