A Manotick farmer says he has one last chance to save a family business that has operated for generations if a new attempt to secure city zoning approval fails. Ron Miller, owner of Millers Berry Farm on Rideau Valley Drive North, is back before the city’s Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee after Ottawa planning staff proposed a compromise zoning solution aimed at resolving a long-running dispute over activities on the property. The farmer argues diversification has become essential for the survival of small family farms, pointing to rising costs and shrinking profit margins in agriculture. “You can’t make a living off a farm,” Miller said. “Just like everything else in business today, you have to diversify.” The new proposal comes after Ottawa City Council rejected a rezoning application for the farm in November 2025. Council refused the rezoning request, citing concerns over business activities on the property not being compliant with zoning rules, and a major increase in permitted heavy vehicles and outdoor storage. Some councillors also worried approval could undermine protections for prime agricultural land and set an undesirable precedent. Miller appealed the decision to the Ontario Land Tribunal, triggering mediation between the city and the farm’s representatives. For Miller, the outcome could determine the future of the family farm. “We’ve got another kick at the cat. We’re going back at it again,” says Miller. “If this doesn’t work out, then we’re going to shut it down in the fall,” he said. “Pumpkin season, that’ll be it.” Miller says the fight to keep the business operating has come at a significant cost, including roughly $30,000 since last fall alone. Following mediation discussions, planning staff are proposing a revised zoning framework that would allow certain business activities to continue under strict limits. The most significant recommendation is that the property’s topsoil bagging operation be shut down by Nov. 1, 2026, with associated equipment removed by the end of the year. Staff concluded the operation is not related to farming on the site, generates significant noise and truck traffic, and does not need to be located on agricultural land. “After many months of mediation, I’m pleased to say that I believe both Millers and the city have arrived at that compromise. Lots of water in everybody’s wine. I don’t think everyone is completely happy. But ultimately, if the compromise that is arrived at has everybody a little uncomfortable, it’s likely the best position that you could have arrived at,” said Rideau-Jock Coun. David Brown. There are several other recommendations, including capping the scale of operations. “The number of vehicles that the farm had operating on premises is going to be significantly reduced, and that’s the total vehicle number, not for each of the businesses that are operating,” Brown said. “That’s going to address concerns about truck traffic and vehicles accessing the site. They’re going to ensure that the on-farm businesses are reduced both in size and set back so they’re further away from neighboring properties.” Brown believes these recommendations will lead to Millers continuing to stay in operation. “(The) Millers and their legal counsel are recommending that council approve this. It’s gotten them to a position where they can continue to be a great business in the community. Ronnie and Susie Miller have such big hearts. They help the community in many different ways, but we needed them to come into compliance so they could continue serving the community,” he said. The Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee is scheduled to consider the proposal before it heads to city council for a final decision. Miller says he remains optimistic despite the uncertainty. “You always have to be hopeful,” he said. “If you’re positive in this world, you keep moving forward.”
