A local father of three could land in jail for trying to provide his young children with healthy food.
Seth Wochensky, of Springville, is accused of violating the rural village's zoning code by keeping three chickens. Wochensky says the law also bars other small animals including rabbits.
"I think it's odd that we live in this agricultural community, and in times when we're trying find better ways to feed ourselves and eat healthy, yet there's still this law on the books here in Springville being enforced that prohibits a very humane and sensible to way to provide some food for your family," Wochensky said.
The village planning board agreed seven years ago that the law should be changed. But he says it was dropped by the village trustees.
"No mailman has been mauled by a hen in Springville...But dogs are a concern. And I'm not suggesting we shouldn't, but we allow dogs, and we just certain take certain measures to protect against a nuisance and the public safety," Wochensky said.
Countless chickens, and other small animals are sold at the livestock auction in Springville every week. And Across Erie County, several municipalities including Amherst, East Aurora, Hamburg, and the City of Buffalo now allow residents to raise chickens for their personal consumption.
Wochenski's trial is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. November 6th in Springville Village Court. If convicted he faces six months in jail and/or thousands of dollars in fines.