During the September 8, 2025, Bellbrook City Council meeting, significant discussions centered around the regulation of poultry and game birds within the city. The council deliberated on whether to include game birds such as quail, pheasant, and chucker in the definition of poultry, which currently encompasses domesticated fowl kept for agricultural purposes.

Council members expressed differing opinions on the inclusion of game birds, with some advocating for their removal from the poultry definition. The conversation highlighted the existing exclusion of geese from the poultry category, raising questions about the consistency of regulations regarding other waterfowl, including ducks and swans. One council member pointed out the arbitrary nature of these exclusions, suggesting that if ducks and swans are permitted, geese should also be allowed.

The discussion also touched on the consumption of geese and their eggs, with some members expressing surprise at the idea that they could be used for food. The council ultimately considered a proposal to strike game birds from the poultry definition and to include swans as an exclusion, reflecting a desire for clarity and consistency in the regulations.

In addition to poultry discussions, the council addressed administrative matters regarding animal control, including the impounding of dogs and the lack of facilities for handling other animals. The removal of fines for loose animals was also debated, with concerns raised about the effectiveness of deterrents without proper impounding processes in place.

As the council moves forward, the implications of these discussions will shape local regulations on poultry and animal control, impacting residents' ability to keep various types of birds and ensuring that the community's agricultural practices align with city policies.