Springfield Votes on Chicken Ordinance, CU Rate Hikes in 2 Weeks

Make no yolk about it, several people in Springfield are voicing support for a proposed ordinance that allows- with restrictions -chickens to be kept inside the city limits. Currently someone has to live on 20 acres of land to be able to keep chickens. The proposal would reduce that dramatically, but only allow up to 6 birds per home. Supporters point out the economic benefits of raising the birds for food. The city's health department isn't happy about the idea because they say the health risks can't be ignored.

Also, it's all or nothing for both budget and rate hike considerations brought to council by Springfield City Utilities. The Southwest II Power Plant is nearly ready to go and C.U. officials say they need a little more money to make that happen. A 16% increase in electric bills will start October 1st. And to keep from having to do the same thing in three years, a gradual rate hike has been proposed along with a fresh budget. Customers would see roughly an extra $2 per month on their utility bill over those three years.