WFRV–A tie-breaking vote by Appleton’s mayor would allow chickens in the city, but it might not stand for long.

The city council was split 7-7 Wednesday night, and Ald. Kathy Plank wasn’t at the meeting. She can ask members to re-vote at the next meeting, in three weeks.

Ald. Cathy Spears said last night that Plank opposes the proposal. If no one changes their votes, and Plank says “no,” backyard chickens wouldn’t be allowed.

Spears raised concerns about the potential for salmonella and avian flu. She says any investigation could impact the budget of the city’s health department.

Mayor Tim Hanna said last week that he supports the idea of chickens.