In a recent government meeting, officials discussed a proposed zoning change for a property located at approximately 1309 East 800 North Circle in New Harmony, Washington County. The application, which aims to modify the zoning from an agricultural minimum lot size of 20 acres to residential agricultural zones with minimum sizes of five and ten acres, has faced scrutiny from the planning commission, which recommended denial on two occasions.

Key concerns raised during the meeting included water availability and the potential for further subdivision of the property. Officials confirmed that there is sufficient water for the two proposed lots, and a user agreement will be required before any lots can be recorded. The applicant has made adjustments to the original proposal, now seeking to establish a five-acre and a ten-acre zone, which would prevent further subdivision without undergoing another zone change process.

The discussion highlighted that the previous zoning request raised fears of potential overdevelopment, as the original application sought to zone the entire parcel to RA-5, which could have allowed for additional subdivisions. However, the modified request aims to address these concerns by ensuring that the zoning would not permit further subdivision without proving adequate utilities and meeting specific requirements.

Tim Watson, representing the applicant, noted that the changes were made in response to feedback from adjacent property owners, who supported the new zoning to enhance access to utilities and services. The meeting concluded with a motion to approve the zone change, reflecting a compromise that aims to balance development needs with community concerns.