BARBERTON — Barberton City Council Oct. 12 approved legislation amending sections of the city development code to allow for beekeeping in traditional and suburban residential districts.
Prior to the vote, Council approved additional amendments requiring bee owners to file with the city Planning Department, as well as requirements for apiary and hive structure location and condition; requiring existing hives and apiaries come into compliance with the new ordinance within 180 days; and limitations on the species of honey bees allowed and the number of hives allowed.
The amended development code passed by a 5-2 vote, with Councilwoman Emily Beck (D-Ward 4) recusing and Councilwomen Jennifer Hagar (R-Ward 1) and Tayler Thompson (R-Ward 6) voting no…