In Wesleyville, the issue of being able to keep chickens has become a hot topic of discussion.

At the borough council meeting, members were talking about the potential for residents to be able to do so by voting on whether or not to advertise the ordinance.

Councilmember Jake Wilder said he went door-to-door campaigning to be elected to that seat and one of his biggest issues was being able to keep chickens.

"95 of the top 100 cities in America allow chickens within reason, you have to have a certain amount of space, coop, pen, and take care of them just like any other responsible pet owner," Wilder said.

Wilder said the issue is important to him because he and his wife are self-sufficient when it comes to food and gardening and after talking with Wesleyville residents, most of them do not necessarily mind the ordinance being passed but there is one thing they do not want.

"I really do not see everyone getting them but I do know that I and at least five other people that are definitely going to get them but the majority of people said they do not care as long as they do not have roosters," he said.

Wilder added whether you are for or against the ordinance, the issue also involves personal freedom.

"I want people to be able to do what they want to do on their property as long as it does not hurt anybody else," he said.

Council voted 4-2 to advertise the ordinance. They will now, presumably, vote on whether or not to pass the ordinance.