Occasionally rumors, gossip and sometimes unconfirmed claims can spread quickly. In an effort to enhance communication between the City of Colonial Heights and our citizens, this page will be updated from time to time with topics that will hopefully clarify some of the more well-known rumors that maybe out in our community.  

Exotic Birds
December 15, 2016

Rumor: "The City Council does not like exotic birds and “has it in” for anyone who owns them."

Fact: This is untrue.  During its December 13, 2016 meeting, Council spent approximately 1 ½ hours (which is highly unusual) listening to and speaking with Lewis Waskey to gather as much information as possible in regards to his application for a permit to keep as companion animals 22 large exotic birds already located on his property, which is almost three times the legal limit.  Given that this request concerned pets, and birds listed as an endangered species, Council wanted to learn all available facts before making its decision.  After careful consideration of the owner’s request and the needs of his neighbors and the City as a whole, the Council voted to allow Mr. Waskey to keep 8 of his 22 birds (4 per residence), plus his dog; but the remaining 14 birds have to be located elsewhere by May 1, 2017.  Council’s decision was based on the following considerations:

•The birds are located in a City with other residents living in close proximity (unlike rural areas in a County).
•Noise
•Complaints from neighbors
•The precedent that granting Mr. Waskey’s request would set forth for other situations where citizens with a large number of animals apply for a permit.

Despite denying Mr. Waskey’s request, the Council Members greatly respect his affection for and care of his birds, and the courtesy he exhibited prior to and during Council’s December 13, 2016 meeting.