New Harmony council denies nonconforming-use status for Millard property after debate over animals

The New Harmony Town Council voted 3–1 on March 4 to deny a nonconforming-use determination for a property associated with Ronette Millard after a contested hearing and legal debate. The council closed the hearing and then moved into deliberations before taking the vote.

Debra Stillman, attorney for Ronette Millard, presented a packet of materials and told the council that the property’s ordinance language and the zoning map do not align; she said her client was willing to consider a phasedown agreement to reduce animal numbers. Town attorney Spencer Thomas rebutted Stillman’s assertions and urged the council to rule on whether the use qualified as nonconforming under local rules.

Council members repeatedly questioned how many animals were on the parcel. Councilmember Norm Allan asked for a breakdown of the roughly "20–30" animals referenced in Stillman’s materials but did not receive a direct count; Councilmember Larsen described "30–35 animals on that small of lot" as excessive during deliberations. Councilmember Batty said a phasedown agreement could be a possibility but ultimately voted against denial.

Councilmember Pace moved to deny the nonconforming-use determination; Allan seconded. The council voted: Pace yes, Allan yes, Larsen yes, Batty no, and the motion to deny carried 3–1. The hearing record does not show a formal phasedown agreement approved at the meeting.

The council closed the hearing and proceeded with the regular agenda. No further enforcement steps or timelines were specified in the meeting record.