Houghton Council Approves Beekeeping and Livestock Ordinance, Two Public Hearings Scheduled in June; Council Wrap

City residents now have a rule book for urban livestock and beekeeping practices. Previously, Houghton’s animal ordinance limited molestation of birds. As the years have gone by, city leadership has begun to field questions from residents wondering if they can keep common livestock animals such as chickens or rabbits. As well as questions from residents interested in beekeeping. After a number of public hearings and review of materials provided by the Copper Country Beekeepers Association, the Houghton council  found common ground. The language limits the number of hives residents can keep, and the size of the hive. Beekeepers wishing to practice the hobby, will need to have a property with a minimum size of 11,000 square feet. Find the ordinance here.

Additionally the city council approved a park request from Grace united Methodist to use the outdoor pavilion at Kestner Park in July for an outdoor worship service. The church had begun outdoor services during the pandemic, and hopes to continue worship practices outside on a sunny July day.

Houghton has scheduled two public hearings to take place on June 14^th. One hearing will discuss the city’s 2023-24 operating budget. While the second will review the capital improvement plan.