MARQUETTE TOWNSHIP -- The Marquette Township Planning Commission has tabled the issue of raising chickens for egg production in urban areas until later in August.

According to Jason McCarthy, Marquette Township Planning/Zoning Administrator, more information is needed before a decision can be reached.

At Wednesday's public hearing, issues of health, predator attraction, cleanliness, noise, impact to property values and precedent were concerns brought up by residents.

McCarthy says that the proposal has very strict limits for those who would like to raise chickens in the urban areas of Marquette Township.  The proposal includes the interested homeowner needing a special use permit, receiving written consent from all neighbors, and having no more than six hens--roosters would not be allowed.  Also, the birds would need to be kept in a coop or pen at all times.

The Marquette Township Planning Commission will have another public hearing on the issue on August 24, 6:30 p.m., at the Township Hall.