Council creates separate definitions for meat processing and poultry processing; would require special use permits for larger meat operations

City Council on Jan. 13 approved changes to the zoning ordinance that create distinct definitions for meat processing and storage facilities and poultry processing.

Staff said the change responds to a nonconforming operation at 256 Charles Street (locally known as T and E Meats) and proposes that meat processing—defined as slaughter and processing of game or domestic animals (excluding poultry)—be allowed only by special use permit in the M‑1 general industrial district. Poultry processing would remain a by‑right use in M‑1, consistent with long‑standing local interpretation.

Todd Ray, representing T and E Meats, told council the business has operated in the city since the 1930s and urged adoption so the operator can later apply for a special use permit to resolve nonconforming status. Ray said the operation serves local farmers and losing it could force longer shipments for livestock processing.

Council discussed whether to codify typical permit conditions (hours, outdoor storage limits, truck routing) in the ordinance or leave them to case‑by‑case review. Staff recommended documenting possible conditions in staff reports rather than embedding them in the code. Planning Commission recommended the definitions unanimously (6‑0). Council approved the amendment on a roll call vote.