Urban Chickens will be the focus of a Newton Planning and Zoning Commission meeting tonight. Commission members will be reviewing the city’s current rules, which allow up to four chickens on property that is at least one acre or zoned A-1 Agricultural. In addition, chickens must be kept more than 100 feet from neighboring homes. Newton Mayor Evelyn George says residents who would like to have chickens on smaller lots have spoken up at a couple of recent council meetings, and this evening’s Planning and Zoning Commission meeting is the first step toward any possible change.

“Because it is going to require a zoning change in the city, the first step is to have the Planning and Zoning Commission really review our ordinance and do some research on urban chickens and what would be entailed in that. I know there are a number of other cities that have gone through this process, and I am sure they will be contacted and researched as well, so that we can make good decisions.”

Supporters of what the Mayor calls “backyard chickens” cite fresh eggs and pure, untainted meat as benefits, while opponents are concerned about odors, pests, and the chickens getting onto neighboring properties. Tonight’s Newton City Planning and Zoning Commission meeting begins at 5 p.m. at City Hall.