Right now it's illegal for folks to raise hens in Dekalb. Which is kind of insane, considering we're surrounded for miles by farms and cornfields! You can raise hens in neighboring towns like Batavia, St. Charles, CHICAGO, and even our capital, Springfield! Hens provide people with the ability to have a say in how their food is raised, and giving power back to the consumer is something everyone can agree is a powerful and positive thing. Right now we're at the mercy of food recalls, unsafe industrial farming practices, etc.I've drafted a proposal that has so far been approved by three aldermen and is waiting it's turn to be scheduled into a city meeting to be discussed.
It took a lot to get to this point! We hung around a farmer's market or two gathering signatures for the petition accompanying the proposal, I had to gather articles proving that, yes, it is safe and beneficial to have hens in the community. Finally, I had to get three aldermen on board, which was intimidating to say the least! The amount of support and positive reception though, has been overwhelming. I want to thank the aldermen, everyone who signed, and my friends who sat with me in the blazing sun trying to convince folks to give hens a chance!
If you have suggestions or ideas on how to improve JAFH, or want to show support, we're on facebook! Also, you can email me at:
hollyhousekitchen@yahoo.com
Thanks!
