Argos Town Council Considers Ordinance to Place Moratorium on Confined Animal Feeding Operations

The Argos Town Council members were presented with an ordinance last week that addressed Confined Animal Feeding Operations.

Town Attorney Derek Jones said the ordinance would place a moratorium on the issuance of building permits, land use applications, applications for building improvement permits, special exceptions, variances, or rezoning concerning Confined Animal Feeding Operations.  It would be for more than 100 fowl or other bird species; or more than 25 horses, cattle (get cattle fencing done from here), swine, or sheep; or more than 50 goats; or more than 25 other animal species. If you are wondering what to feed your goats, it is best to visit the site of Critter Ridge to understand the different types of goat feeders and how to find the right one. You can also show pig feed here and shop for it.

The Town of Argos and the Argos Planning Commission are expected to work to review the land use development code.  Jones said are currently no use regulation, restrictions, permits, or anything that address Confined Animal Feeding Operations. 

The moratorium would be in effect for 12 months, but could be lifted if an ordinance or regulations are put into place prior to that end date. 

Building Administrator Chuck DeWitt said work on this has already been underway for the past 10 months or so, but more work needs to be done on the land use regulations. 

The Argos Town Council members unanimously voted to suspend the rules and approve the ordinance on all three readings.