The Michigan Radio account details the opposition:
But not everyone agrees. A representative of large scale chicken farms has warned the city of the risk of disease. And the Kent County Health Department also opposes backyard chickens.
The Editorial from the Grand Rapids Press is careful not to take a side on the question.
Grand Rapids is considering joining the trend. The city’s proposal will be up for a public hearing July 13. Before allowing backyard poultry, however, commissioners should be convinced that keeping chickens in the city won’t create a nuisance or a health hazard.
