Want barnyard animals in the city? Hillsboro wants to talk about it

The City of Hillsboro has scheduled three community meetings to have a discussion about the keeping of livestock, chickens and livestock miniatures such as pygmy goats and miniature horses in the city.

Based upon feedback from these meetings, staff will develop policy options for the City Council's consideration this summer. In addition to what types of animals should be allowed within the city limits, the policy options will also address livability issues like noise, odor, containment and health concerns.

The meetings will be held:

• Feb. 8 from 7-9 p.m. at Century High School
• Feb. 11 from 7-9 p.m. at Civic Center
• Feb. 25 from 7-9 p.m. at Quatama Elementary

Staff from the planning and police departments will be at the meetings to share information and answer questions.

Within the last year, the city has fielded 24 inquires and 38 complaints about various animals within the city limits including chickens, goats, horses and peacocks.