Dear Editor,

I write with a renewed sense of optimism regarding two interconnected issues affecting our community: the outdated municipal codes and the persistent unresponsiveness of our county Board of Commissioners. Efforts to bring our local regulations concerning backyard poultry in line with modern standards have been met largely with silence from our elected officials.

Since our first (and only) meeting with representatives of the Board in January, dozens of residents — including myself — have called, sent letters, attended Board of Commissioners meetings, and circulated a petition calling for a review and revision of the backyard chicken ordinances. The response from the board of commissioners has been perfunctory at best and dismissive at worst. No, this is not just “a Lake George problem.” This lack of responsiveness erodes trust in local government and breeds cynicism among the very people whose participation democracy depends upon.

The need to review and update the codes, hire more code enforcement officers and enforce a county-wide standard was identified in Liberty County’s 2040 Joint Comprehensive Plan, published five years ago. Recent events and ongoing discussions in our neighborhoods have highlighted the continued disconnect between current municipal regulations and the values, needs, and aspirations of residents who seek to embrace sustainable and responsible practices — practices such as keeping a small flock of backyard chickens.

Cities large and small — Atlanta, Athens, Savannah and countless others have adopted progressive codes allowing for backyard chickens, often after robust public consultation. These communities report not only an uptick in resident satisfaction but also increased civic engagement and a sense of pride in local government responsiveness.

By contrast, our county’s inertia leaves us lagging behind, depriving residents of opportunities available elsewhere. We risk becoming a cautionary tale about missed chances and bureaucratic stubbornness when we could instead be a model of collaboration and innovation. Outdated laws and unresponsive leadership are not insurmountable obstacles, but they require the steady pressure of engaged citizens and the humility of officials willing to adapt.

I was pleased to read the July 3 Letter to the Editor authored by the Liberty County Administrative Team. I couldn’t agree more with the closing paragraph – “Let’s keep the conversation going around the table where both parties can find solutions that build a stronger community for all.” I gratefully accept your kind offer.

I urge the board of commissioners to listen — truly listen — to the voices of their constituents. This means more than simply acknowledging receipt of public comments; it means active, transparent engagement with the concerns and solutions offered by residents. The passion of those advocating for backyard chickens is not a fringe concern — it reflects broader desires for local empowerment, environmental responsibility, and a government that listens.

Let us not allow inertia to dictate our future. Let us, instead, reaffirm our commitment to responsive democracy and wise stewardship of our community’s resources. I invite my neighbors, local organizations, and especially our commissioners to begin this conversation anew — with open minds, open ears, and a genuine willingness to shape a county that meets the needs of its people, both today and tomorrow.

William Weiss