04:47The chicken ordinance, a topic of heated discussion, was the focal point of the meeting. The public hearing allowed residents to express both support and concern for the proposal. One resident raised several issues, emphasizing the potential challenges of integrating chickens into a residential area. Concerns about noise, odor, and the possibility of attracting rodents were among the points discussed. The speaker also expressed apprehension about the impact on property values, particularly in newer developments, and suggested a community chicken coop as an alternative solution to individual ownership.

10:53Conversely, another resident advocated for the benefits of raising chickens, highlighting the desire for organic, homegrown food sources as a primary motivation. This individual argued for the ordinance by emphasizing the need for regulations that would allow responsible chicken ownership while addressing neighbors’ concerns. They pointed to other cities, such as St. Cloud and Brainerd, which have successfully implemented similar ordinances. These examples could serve as models for Pierz, they argued, contrasting the situation with Little Falls, where the absence of an ordinance has led some residents to keep chickens in secret.

14:52The council received written feedback from city officials, including the public works director and the police chief, both of whom supported the ordinance. They underscored the importance of clear regulations to ensure effective management and enforcement. Ultimately, the council’s roll call vote determined the ordinance’s fate, with Gary and Sarah opposing and Donnie and others supporting its adoption.

18:43In addition to the chicken ordinance, the council addressed financial and staffing matters. The claims report for May amounted to $343,923.91 and was approved without opposition. Discussion then shifted to the park complex, where staffing changes were proposed and approved. Michaela Moore was hired for the clubhouse at a rate of $14 per hour, and Mark Cohisel received a pay increase from $19.50 to $20 per hour. Philip Sam was also brought on as a grounds crew member at $16 per hour.

Further staffing discussions highlighted the need for an additional full-time seasonal grounds crew member. This was deemed necessary due to recent employee departures and to improve operational consistency. The council approved the motion to search for candidates.

Excitement surrounded the announcement of a grand opening event for the new nine holes at the park, scheduled for July 10, 2025, with public access beginning July 11. Raffle tickets for the event will be sold to fund cart path improvements, with prices set at $20 for one ticket and $50 for three.

In a related discussion, the council considered hiring a part-time employee to replace Evangeline, with deliberation on whether this role could address the need for an additional grounds crew member. The decision was tabled pending further information.

27:03Lastly, the council addressed a request from Laura for a 30-day compliance period under the new chicken ordinance for current residents with chickens. This proposal aimed to ease the transition and was approved following a motion and second. As the meeting concluded, ongoing budget preparations involving department heads were briefly mentioned before a unanimous motion to adjourn was passed.