DeKALB – The referendum for backyard chickens in DeKalb has been rejected as part of the April election ballot. With a vote of 53.94%, the referendum will not proceed to City Council to allow chickens in DeKalb. 

The movement in support of backyard chickens in DeKalb stems from a petition created over a year ago by DeKalb resident Brittany Schaeferwhich has over 500 signatures. 

Keeping a small group of chickens has a vast amount of benefits that include healthy eggs, fertilizer for gardening and their ability to propel local food systems, according to the Green America website. 

Second Ward Alderperson Bill Finucane was the only one out of eight CIty Council members who voted against it back in August of 2020 due to health risks like salmonella, according to an August 25 Northern Star article.