Louisville, Kentucky, January 23, 2026
Councilwoman Jennifer Chappell is hosting a town hall on January 26, 2026, aimed at discussing amendments to the Louisville Metro Code regarding livestock space requirements. The meeting seeks public input on recent changes affecting urban livestock owners, including minimum space requirements for animals previously exempt. Residents have expressed concerns over the potential implications for their animals, and the councilwoman emphasizes the importance of community engagement in addressing these issues.
Louisville Councilwoman to Host Town Hall on Livestock Ordinance Amendment
Louisville, Kentucky – Councilwoman Jennifer Chappell is inviting community members to a town hall discussion on January 26, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at the South Central Regional Library, located at 7300 Jefferson Boulevard. The meeting aims to gather public input on recent changes to the Louisville Metro Code of Ordinances (LMCO) concerning livestock space requirements.
Purpose of the Town Hall
The town hall seeks to address concerns from residents affected by amendments to LMCO Chapter 91, particularly the definition of “Restraint,” approved by the Metro Council on October 16, 2025. These amendments introduced minimum space requirements for certain livestock animals, including ponies, miniature horses, goats, kids, sheep, and pigs. Previously, these animals were exempt from such requirements.
Background of the Ordinance Changes
The primary focus of the ordinance amendments was to update and strengthen requirements related to microchipping dogs and cats. However, additional language was included that addressed space requirements for specific livestock animals. This inclusion has raised concerns among residents who own these animals in urban settings, as they may now be in violation of the new space requirements.
Community Response and Actions
In response to the ordinance changes, Councilwoman Chappell acknowledged the unintended consequences for some responsible animal owners. She emphasized that the changes were not made maliciously and expressed a commitment to addressing the concerns raised by the community. To facilitate the discussion, Chappell has invited residents to complete a short survey about livestock ownership ahead of the meeting. Representatives from Metro Animal Services will also be present to listen to residents’ concerns and work toward a solution.
Implications for Livestock Owners
The ordinance amendments have significant implications for urban livestock owners. Animals that were previously legal to keep in smaller urban properties may now be considered non-compliant based solely on lot size, despite no change in care, housing, or welfare. This situation has led to petitions and calls for the Metro Council to revisit and amend the livestock provisions in Ordinance No. 178-2025, restore reasonable exemptions for responsible backyard livestock keeping, and grandfather in existing animals to prevent displacement or surrender.
Conclusion
The upcoming town hall provides an opportunity for Louisville residents to voice their concerns and contribute to the discussion on the recent livestock ordinance amendments. Councilwoman Chappell and Metro Animal Services representatives are committed to addressing the community’s feedback and working toward a solution that balances animal welfare with urban living considerations.
FAQ
What is the purpose of the town hall on January 26, 2026?
The town hall aims to gather public input on recent changes to the Louisville Metro Code of Ordinances concerning livestock space requirements.
When and where is the town hall taking place?
The town hall is scheduled for January 26, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at the South Central Regional Library, located at 7300 Jefferson Boulevard.
What changes were made to the Louisville Metro Code of Ordinances?
The amendments introduced minimum space requirements for certain livestock animals, including ponies, miniature horses, goats, kids, sheep, and pigs, which were previously exempt from such requirements.
Why were these changes implemented?
The primary focus of the ordinance amendments was to update and strengthen requirements related to microchipping dogs and cats. However, additional language was included that addressed space requirements for specific livestock animals.
How have residents responded to these changes?
Residents have expressed concerns about the unintended consequences for responsible animal owners. Councilwoman Chappell acknowledged these concerns and is committed to addressing them through community engagement and potential ordinance revisions.
What actions are being taken to address these concerns?
Councilwoman Chappell has invited residents to complete a survey about livestock ownership ahead of the meeting. Representatives from Metro Animal Services will also be present to listen to residents’ concerns and work toward a solution.
What are the implications for urban livestock owners?
The ordinance amendments have significant implications for urban livestock owners, as animals that were previously legal to keep in smaller urban properties may now be considered non-compliant based solely on lot size, despite no change in care, housing, or welfare.
What is the community’s stance on the ordinance changes?
The community is actively seeking to protect backyard goats, sheep, and miniature horses in Louisville. A petition has been initiated to urge the Metro Council to revisit and amend the livestock provisions in Ordinance No. 178-2025, restore reasonable exemptions for responsible backyard livestock keeping, and grandfather in existing animals to prevent displacement or surrender.
Key Features of the Livestock Ordinance Amendment
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Minimum Space Requirements | Introduced for certain livestock animals, including ponies, miniature horses, goats, kids, sheep, and pigs, which were previously exempt. |
| Community Engagement | Councilwoman Chappell is hosting a town hall to gather public input and address concerns from residents affected by the changes. |
| Petition for Ordinance Revision | A petition has been initiated to urge the Metro Council to revisit and amend the livestock provisions in Ordinance No. 178-2025, restore reasonable exemptions, and grandfather in existing animals to prevent displacement or surrender. |
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