NORWICH – Notwithstanding requests from a few residents that chickens be allowed in the City of Norwich, the Norwich Common Council decided not to take the issue to a final vote on Tuesday.

According to Council members, a vote to change the city ordinance that currently restricts many homeowners from keeping fowl would be an inefficient use of time and resources, despite recent interest from city residents to have chickens on their property.

“I don’t believe this is in the best interest of the city at this time,” said Ward One Alderman Matthew Caldwell, one of the three Council members who refused a vote. “I believe we have far more important things that we need to consume ourselves with.”

Caldwell was backed by aldermen Thomas LoPiccolo and David Zieno in the decision not to take the issue to a final vote. Third Ward Alderman John Deierlein wasn’t present at Tuesday’s Joint Committees meeting to weigh in.

Nevertheless, the issue should be put to rest in a final vote, argued Alderman Brian Doliver who made the failed motion to bring the matter to the Common Council.