The Plymouth Board of Health meeting on October 10, 2024, focused on a contentious issue regarding a local resident's emotional support rooster named Henry. The discussion centered around a request for a variance to allow Henry to remain outside during specific hours, despite complaints from neighbors about noise.
During the meeting, a resident explained that they had raised funds with other homeowners to address flooding issues in their area, which highlighted community engagement. However, the primary focus shifted to the concerns surrounding Henry, who has been a source of both support and contention in the neighborhood. Supporters of Henry argued that the rooster's crowing is a natural sound of rural life, while detractors expressed frustration over the noise.
The board discussed the possibility of granting a variance that would allow Henry to be outside from 9 AM until dusk, without the use of a crow collar, which is typically used to minimize noise. Board members debated the implications of setting specific time restrictions, considering the rooster's age and the precedent set by previous cases involving emotional support animals.
Ultimately, the board voted in favor of allowing the variance, with conditions that Henry could be outside during the specified hours. However, they cautioned that if complaints continued, the issue might need to be revisited. This decision reflects the board's attempt to balance community concerns with the rights of residents to keep emotional support animals.
The meeting concluded with a reminder that ongoing dialogue and cooperation among neighbors would be essential to maintain harmony in the community.