High River Town Council has all but approved urban chicken coops and backyard beehives within town limits and all that's left are a few modifications to town bylaws and not everyone's on board.

Councillor Emile Blokland has been opposed to the idea from the beginning and says town is no place for the birds.

"This is a bylaw now that has been passed by council so High River will be joining many that  will be allowing urban chickens and bees in their community, I voted against this during the meeting."

He says that although he disagrees with the idea the $75  application fee should ensure that people getting into the practice are serious about it and do a good job.

He says chickens have a place in the world and it's not in town.

"Perhaps just being a little old fashion in my thinking but I'm of the belief that chickens among other animals like cows and pigs belong on a farm and I don't see them as good urban neighbors."

Town Council has agreed to a third and final read of the urban chicken bylaw.

Councillor Blokland hasn't been a fan of the idea from the beginning and voted against it again at the council meeting but says he's satisfied with how things will work.

"The bylaws in place are reasonable. The rate bylaw itself is put in place to make sure that people that are getting into this serious about it and will do a good job and if they follow the regulations as well I think we'll be fine."

Councillor, Emile Blokland. Photo - Jeff McLenaghan.

For more information on the urban chicken and bees bylaws click here:High River Bylaws