The Argos Town Council members discussed zoning matters Wednesday night that concern the allowance of certain animals within town limits, specifically chickens.
The discussion was spurred by a request from Ron McMillen to change the ordinance to allow chickens. He stated he already has six at his home, which are his daughter’s pets, and received a fine for having them as they are not a permitted animal to have in town limits.
The council held a work session prior to their regular town council meeting where they discussed the matter at length, finally determining that the zoning ordinance and town code should match to show that animal production special use is permissible on parcels five acres or greater.
Town Attorney Derek Jones said permission to have the chickens should have been sought before the Planning Commission since it would be special use in the Residential zoning area (R1).
There was discussion on allowing chickens in town, but if the ordinance is amended to allow them, then there may be more requests to house other livestock-type or exotic animals on properties within town limits.
The council wants to make sure that the town code and zoning ordinance concerning this topic match, and then they will address more on the issue.
