SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO.com) — The Sioux Falls City Council gives approval to the first reading of an ordinance that would allow residents to keep bees.
The ordinance passed 7 to 0.
The ordinance was sponsored by Councilors Janet Brekke and Theresa Stehly.
They say that the permitting process would be deliberately difficult to make sure only qualified and committed people keep hives.
They also say perhaps only 5 to 10 people will eventually keep backyard bees.
John Walker, an Augustana University student, told the Council that some at the school would like to start a campus beehive. However, he said how the current measure was written might make that impossible.
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Brekke said she would talk with City health officials about how that might work.
Councilor Christine Erickson said she supported the measure but added that people need to be aware of concerns of residents who are allergic to bee stings. She also mentioned comments that listeners made on a recent The Greg Belfrage Show about the issue.
Second reading is November 5th.
