IOLA, Kan. — Keeping of chickens remains banned in Iola. The Iola City Council Monday night voted 4-3 against an ordinance that would have legalized keeping of chickens in the city limits, a topic that was brought up in April 2024 and failed on the same vote.
Council member Joelle Shallah said during discussion she was not comfortable voting on this proposal at this time, as she desired to study new information provided and obtain input from residents. Shallah said her vote last night reflected input received from constituents, who were overwhelmingly against allowing chickens in the city.
During discussion, Mayor Steve French said he would rather the proposal be tabled until after new Council members are elected this fall. There was also discussion on whether a policy on when issues can be brought back to the Council should be established.
Three items connected with the Allen County Fair were approved by the Iola City Council Monday, including permitting a beer garden within a designated area during the fair. Also approved was a waiver of the usual curfew in Riverside Park for the duration of the fair to accommodate camping and events, and three additional electrical panels to support food vendors during the fair.
It also gave approval for The Boys, a 10U traveling baseball team based in Iola, to have a slow pitch softball tournament fundraiser Aug. 9 on Field 3 at Riverside Park. Council approval was required as they are charging admission and selling concessions.
The Council heard several 2026 budget presentations, including those from the city’s utility departments, the Iola Public Library, and Iola Recreation.
An executive session was conducted to discuss real estate acquisition, from which no action was taken.
