Urban agriculture discussed at Planning Commission

The Flint Planning Commission July 28 discussed an urban agriculture meeting and a bylaw amendment on teleconferencing during meetings.

The group discussed items at an urban agriculture meeting held July 14 organized by Megan Minock, a planning consultant with ENP & Associates.

She said residents were concerned about the aesthetics, security and maintenance of hoop houses. They were also concerned about keeping animals, mainly chickens, goats and bees, on residential property.

More than 90 people attended the meeting, including restaurant owners who stressed the need to use locally grown foods.

The group discussed a proposed bylaw on teleconferencing at meetings when there is not a quorum.

Commissioner Patrick Ryals (2nd Ward) said the bylaw change should be confined to cases when a member is physically unable to attend a meeting, and a request should be made in advance — not minutes before the meeting.

There are now bylaws for attendance such as the number of missed meetings in a row.

The group plans to vote on the bylaw at the Aug. 11 meeting.