Letter to the editor: Community voices not being heard in West Leechburg

I recently proposed an amendment to our borough’s backyard chicken ordinance, but instead of giving the idea fair consideration or allowing residents to weigh in, our borough council dismissed it almost immediately. Their reasoning was that enforcement would be “too costly” and that allowing backyard chickens would somehow “destroy the borough.”

What makes this especially frustrating is that the borough continues to fine residents for repeat petty ordinance violations without addressing the actual issues behind them. If we have the time and resources to hand out fines, why can’t we have an honest conversation about updating outdated ordinances?

Meanwhile, our taxes remain incredibly high. Residents are paying more than enough to expect accountability, fairness and a government willing to hear community input. I started a Change.org petition to demonstrate public support, but leadership didn’t seem to be interested.

That, in my opinion, highlights a bigger issue than chickens: a lack of respect for community voices. This isn’t just about chickens; it’s about transparency, accountability and making sure residents are treated as partners in shaping the future of our borough.

We deserve to be heard, not dismissed.

Kacy Lauffer

West Leechburg