Proposed Alexandria Live Poultry Market Draws Concerns

ALEXANDRIA, VA—Ahead of Alexandria City Council's vote on a live poultry market, the city has received a number of comments in support and against the business.

DC Poultry Market proposed the butchery at 3225 Colvin Street. Originally founded as Saba Live Poultry in 1998, the family-run business uses the halal method of meat preparation and operates at 14 locations nationwide.

The butchery would have a customer area with a counter and office, as well as an area to hold the live poultry. Customers would be guided to the rear of the building, where the live poultry would be held. Customers would choose the animal, which will be processed and brought to the waiting area.

A number of residents said in comments that slaughtering animals has no place in Alexandria. One comment reads, "Alexandria is a beautiful and peaceful city. Please don't allow an inherently cruel, bloody and violent business to open shop within its confines."

The poultry market would be located in a building surrounded by commercial and business uses. A number of people opposed to the project raised concerns about the market's proximity to pet businesses. Pet businesses in the vicinity include Frolick Dogs, Dogtopia, Pinnacle Pet Spa and More and Wholistic Hound Academy.

The West End Business Association came out against the proposal in support of pet businesses. The association highlighted potential smells coming from the butchery in range of pets. The possibility of pet customers being driven away was also raised. "We are persuaded that the existence of this business would have a significant negative impact on the existing businesses," reads the association's letter to the city.

Another opposed resident detailed her experience living in an area where poultry slaughter business thrives. "I can attest that the smell from these facilities is horrendous and spreads rapidly and for significant distances if there's a wind," reads the resident's letter.

Others wrote in support of the business, saying it fulfills a need for fresh poultry in the area. One resident noted that some travel far to acquire live poultry. The resident contends the market would save people time and allow chickens to be slaughtered while regulated by health and other government authorities.

The Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval.

"The proposed use would be the first of its kind within the city limits and would provide a convenient location for residents in the city and throughout the region to access halal meat," states a city staff report. Staff's recommended conditions for approval address odor and noise concerns.

City Council will vote on the proposal Tuesday, March 26. The public hearing was held on March 16 and is closed.