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Planning Commission approves Whiskey Ranch conditional‑use permit for private ranch events, 8–1
Summary
The commission recommended approval of a conditional use permit for Whiskey Ranch (WR Horse & Cattle LLC) to host private ranch experiences and meals on a 20‑acre site near State Line Road, amending the condition to permit two events per week; staff cited minimal expected noise and traffic impacts.
The Miami County Planning Commission voted to recommend approval of a conditional use permit July 7 to allow Whiskey Ranch to operate curated ranch experiences for private groups on a roughly 20.5‑acre site along State Line Road.
Assistant Planning Director Jeff Joseph told the commission the applicant had operated under a temporary special event permit without complaints and that most activities would take place inside existing buildings. The request covers events between March and November with anticipated attendance of 12–24 participants per event (not to exceed 50). Joseph presented 13 recommended conditions; commissioners amended Condition 6 to reflect the applicant’s clarified request for two events per week rather than twice per month before approving the CUP by voice vote (eight in favor, one opposed).
Applicant Reagan Mueller, appearing on behalf of owner Jim Mueller, described the program as a small‑group educational and entertainment experience — hat and boot fittings, animal interactions, horseback riding and catered barbecue — and said the events had drawn largely well‑behaved, registered participants so far. "We want to be good neighbors," Reagan Mueller told commissioners, adding the program is designed to be interior to the property and limited to registered guests.
Staff noted a short window to the county commissioners (final decision expected July 29) and said conditions can require dust control, parking and other mitigation if the planning commission or county commissioners deem them necessary. The commission recorded the recommendation to the Board of County Commissioners with the amended frequency condition; the county commission will make the final decision on the permit.
