Welcoming GoldMark Farm as a Founding Member of Horse Farms Forever

Welcoming GoldMark Farm as a Founding Member of Horse Farms Forever

by | Jul 28, 2026 | News

Protecting Horse Country takes more than advocacy, it takes leaders who are willing to invest in its future. Horse Farms Forever is proud to welcome GoldMark Farm as our newest Founding Member.

Situated on 1,600 acres in the heart of Marion County’s Farmland Preservation Area, GoldMark Farm embodies the land, heritage, and equestrian excellence that have made Ocala the Horse Capital of the World. Their commitment to preserving open space while continually investing in world-class equestrian facilities aligns perfectly with the mission of Horse Farms Forever.

View Founder Bio

A Shared Commitment to Horse Country

Since 2006, GoldMark Farm has grown into one of Ocala’s premier equestrian destinations, serving both the Thoroughbred and sport horse communities with exceptional training, rehabilitation, and horse care.

As the farm continues to expand, it is also helping strengthen Ocala’s international reputation through thoughtfully developed facilities that include:

  • World-class Thoroughbred training facilities
  • Two new sport horse arenas
  • A regulation-sized dressage arena with 72 feet of mirrors
  • State-of-the-art rehabilitation and conditioning amenities
  • Spacious turnout and horse-centered management
  • The historic Triple Crown Museum

Every investment reflects a long-term commitment, not only to horses, but to preserving the landscape that makes all of this possible.

Learn More About GoldMark Farm

Building on a Vision of Excellence

Founded in 2006 by T. Paul Bulmahn, GoldMark Farm was created from a lifelong passion for horses and a vision of developing one of the country’s premier equestrian facilities.

Paul believed exceptional horse care and elite performance should go hand in hand. His thoughtful approach to the land, the horses, and the people who care for them continues to shape GoldMark Farm today. Following his passing, that vision lives on through the continued growth of the farm and its unwavering commitment to excellence.

Investing in the Future of Horse Country

Over the years, GoldMark Farm has evolved into a premier destination for both the Thoroughbred and sport horse communities.

Recent investments include two exceptional sport horse arenas, highlighted by a regulation-sized dressage arena with 72 feet of mirrors, along with state-of-the-art rehabilitation and conditioning amenities, Equivibe therapy systems, a training pool, expansive turnout, and meticulously maintained grounds.

The farm is also home to the Triple Crown Museum, helping preserve and celebrate Ocala’s rich racing heritage while embracing the future of equestrian sport.

Every investment reflects a commitment not only to horses, but to protecting the land that makes Marion County’s equestrian industry possible.

Partners in Preservation

Horse Farms Forever works to protect the farms, open spaces, and agricultural character that define Marion County.

By becoming a Founding Member, GoldMark Farm is helping ensure those landscapes remain protected for generations to come. Their support strengthens advocacy efforts, conservation initiatives, and educational programs that preserve the unique character of Horse Country while supporting the equine industry that depends on it.

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Thank You, GoldMark Farm

Horse Farms Forever is honored to welcome GoldMark Farm as a Founding Member and grateful for their investment in the future of Marion County.

Thank you for carrying forward T. Paul Bulmahn’s vision and for standing with us to protect the farms, open spaces, and equestrian traditions that make Horse Country unlike anywhere else in the world.

Get in touch with GoldMark:

Janelle Bulmahn
Cell: 352-895-5554
Office: 352-369-3377
Email: Info@GoldMarkFarm.com
Website: GoldMarkFarm.com

 

Protect – we are always watching. When a threat is identified, we quickly assemble a threat response.
Promote – we are out in the community and on social media, raising awareness and inspiring appreciation for all that we have here in Marion County.
Preserve – we guide and encourage landowners who wish to conserve their land.
Plan – we are working with the County on changes to the Comprehensive Plan that will make conservation easy and financially advantageous for farm owners.
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View Current Threats

Questions About Membership and Sponsorship?

Contact Sara Fennessy – Executive Director

859-553-5510

Email Sara

BREAKING NEWS: Charlotte Weber Files Second Complaint Seeking Permanent Injunction

BREAKING NEWS: Charlotte Weber Files Second Complaint Seeking Permanent Injunction

by | Jul 24, 2026 | News, Watching

 Charlotte Weber has filed a second complaint challenging the Major Site Plan that was approved at the June 22 Development Review Committee (DRC) meeting. The complaint also challenges the building permits that have been issued and seeks a permanent injunction to stop construction.

The complaint was filed on July 22, 2026 and seeks declaratory and injunctive relief against Marion County and Golden Ocala Equestrian Land, LLC. The lawsuit also petitions the court for a writ of certiorari to quash the County’s Major Site Plan that was approved in June for the WEC Polo Field and Facilities.  A jury trial was also “demanded on all issues so triable,” according to the complaint.

There are three main counts in the complaint that address the Major Site Plan and building permits, which were approved even though the legal challenges to the 2026 Pending Approvals are ongoing. The first complaint was filed by Ms. Weber on April 17, 2026. The second complaint seeks a permanent injunction to stop construction. (Read the April complaint.)

In June, Golden Ocala submitted a Major Site Plan to the DRC titled the WEC Polo Field and Facilities. According to the complaint, “it was all a sham.”

“The Major Site Plan and Building Permits align with the sports facilities complex that was the subject of the 2026 Pending Approvals. Golden Ocala intends to proceed with its site construction under the guise that it is the “Polo Field” per the 2020 PUD Rezoning, with plans to quickly pivot and finish off the soccer fields if it is successful on the legal challenges to the 2026 Pending Approvals (which, with appeals, may be several years),” the complaint states.

In fact, as the complaint states, “the electrical lighting permits authorize banks of lights and seating where the separations are between the southern three soccer fields, which would be in the middle of the alleged “Polo Field.” That would certainly be an interesting wrinkle in the sport of polo.”

If this is truly a polo field, why are there banks of lights and seating between what appears to be soccer fields on the site plan? And where are the barns for the horses and the parking for the horse trailers?

Horse Farms Forever is looking forward to reading the answers to these questions in the depositions.

The complaint asks the court to address several items including:

  • Issue a permanent injunction preventing Golden Ocala from developing or constructing the Sports/Entertainment Property in accordance with the Major Site Plan approval and Building Permits, as they violate County zoning regulations.
  • Declare that the Major Site Plan approval and Building Permits are in violation of the 2020 PUD Rezoning.
  • If applicable, issue a Writ of Certiorari, to quash the Major Site Plan approval
  • Award costs and attorneys’ fees, plus interest.
View Part 1 of the Complaint
View Part 2 of the Complaint

Horse Farms Forever is working hard to keep our members up to date about the proposed WEC Sports Complex and other potential threats to the Farmland Preservation Area. Your support makes all the difference!

Please Join Us Today!
View our latest coverage of the WEC Sports Complex

Celebrating 8 Years: Protecting More Than Land, Preserving a Legacy

Celebrating 8 Years: Protecting More Than Land, Preserving a Legacy

by | Jun 30, 2026 | News

Protecting More Than Land, Preserving a Legacy

Horse Farms Forever® is the trusted watchdog protecting Marion County’s horse farms and the Farmland Preservation Area. For eight years, we have been standing watch.

Eight years ago, when a proposed toll road threatened to cut through the heart of Marion County’s Farmland Preservation Area, the community united with determination and purpose, and — together, we stopped the Coastal Connector.

Today, Horse Farms Forever® remains steadfast and vigilant as the pressures threatening our horse farms and farmland continue to intensify. Protecting the landscape that defines Marion County isn’t a one-time effort—it requires constant vigilance, informed leadership, and a community committed to preserving what makes this place extraordinary.

Every proposed development matters. That’s why we carefully monitor development applications, with particular attention to those affecting the Farmland Preservation Area. Our team invests hundreds of hours reviewing proposals, analyzing potential impacts, and identifying threats before they become irreversible.

When our Horse Farms Forever watchdogs spot a concern, we don’t wait—we act. You can count on us to investigate, engage, advocate, and stand up for the farms, open spaces, and rural character that make Marion County unlike anywhere else.

We Can Only Continue this Work with YOUR Support! Join Today!

As we celebrate eight years of protecting the Farmland Preservation Area, we want to thank you. Your membership, generosity, and unwavering support have made every victory possible. Because you chose to stand with us, we’ve been able to safeguard the character, beauty, and future of this special place.

But our work is far from over.

Your donation today will ensure Horse Farms Forever® remains vigilant and ready to respond—protecting the Farmland Preservation Area for generations to come.

Thank you for standing watch with us for the past eight years. We are honored to have you by our side.

Eight Years of Action

Stopped the proposed Coastal Connector Toll Road from cutting through the heart of the Farmland Preservation Area.

Strengthened protections for the Farmland Preservation Area by helping amend the Marion County Comprehensive Plan to better define rural character and compatible land uses.

Successfully opposed incompatible development proposals, including an ATV park and drag strip that threatened Horse Country.

Stopped illegal waivers granted by the Development Review Committee for Major Site Plans to allow building permits to move forward.

Championed Conservation Easements and innovative land protection tools, including improvements to the Transfer of Development Rights program.

Annual Conservation Summit: Educated and inspired thousands through Conversations About Conservation, the annual Conservation Summit, and through community outreach, and advocacy.

2021 Quality-of-Life Survey: Demonstrated overwhelming public support for farmland preservation by leading a Quality-of-Life Survey showing more than 90% of residents support protecting horse farms and the Farmland Preservation Area.

Seat at the Table: Earned a respected seat at the table, becoming a trusted partner with local governments, planners, and community stakeholders in shaping Marion County’s future.

For eight years, supporters like you have made every victory possible.

Help protect the next eight years by becoming a member, renewing your support, or making a tax-deductible donation.

Your generosity fuels the advocacy, research, and leadership needed to protect Marion County’s Farmland Preservation Area.

Stand watch with us. Join, renew, or donate today.

Support Our Mission - Join Today!

Protect – we are always watching. When a threat is identified, we quickly assemble a threat response.

Promote – we are out in the community and on social media, raising awareness and inspiring appreciation for all that we have here in Marion County.

Preserve – we guide and encourage landowners who wish to conserve their land.

Plan – we are working with the County on changes to the Comprehensive Plan that will make conservation easy and financially advantageous for farm owners.

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Join Today!
View Current Threats

More Breaking News Update! Horse Farms Forever Challenge Puts a Stop to Illegal DRC Waivers for Major Site Plans

More Breaking News Update! Horse Farms Forever Challenge Puts a Stop to Illegal DRC Waivers for Major Site Plans

by | Jun 26, 2026 | News, Ongoing, Watching

Always Alert

The Horse Farms Forever watchdogs actively monitor all applications for development with a special focus on the Farmland Preservation Area. On late Thursday, June 18th, when the County published the Development Review Committee (DRC) agenda for the Monday, June 22nd meeting, the HFF watchdogs spotted something concerning and immediately sprang into action.

David Tillman of Tillman and Associates Engineering, the applicant for the Golden Ocala Equestrian Land WEC Polo Field and Facilities, submitted a waiver request to allow the release of building permits prior to approval of the Major Site Plan.

Early on Monday morning, Horse Farms Forever’s attorney, Matthew Brockway, submitted a formal letter to the County challenging the DRC’s authority to approve the waiver request.

At the DRC meeting, Chuck Varadin, Director of Growth Services, presented Brockway’s letter and asked Assistant County Attorney Linda Blackburn for clarification on the points in the HFF Brockway letter.

“There’s a letter that the Board has and so we’re looking for legal to provide some clarification on that going forward because there are a lot of plan approvals that the letter questions,” said Mr. Varadin.

Be sure to watch the video below of Mr. Varadin’s full comments.

Then, Ms. Blackburn, addressed the DRC, stating that the Development Review Committee did not have the authority to waive major site plans and she referenced the relevant sections of the County’s Land Development Code: Division 10, Waiver Request and Division 21 Major Site Plan.

“I know it has been done in the past, I’ve had consult with Mr. Minter (County Attorney) and Mr. Brockway is absolutely correct,” said Ms. Blackburn. “We are not to sidestep major site plan approval and then allow permits to go forward.”

Be sure to watch both videos below of Ms. Blackburn’s full comments.

The County’s Land Development Code establishes the DRC’s limited authority to grant waivers. The waiver provisions are intended to apply to design and improvement standards, “not the fundamental application, review, and approval procedures and requirements of the LDC,” as Mr. Brockway also states in his letter:

“The DRC lacks the power and authority to grant a waiver to release building permits prior to approval of the Major Site Plan as requested in Item 6.1.”

“Any DRC waiver of this nature is ultra vires and illegal.”

Click Here to Read Matthew Brockway's Letter to the County

Outcome of WEC’s DRC Requests

Golden Ocala had two items on the DRC agenda related to WEC. The first was a request to revert to the 2020 PUD Master Plan for WEC that included a polo field where the 2026 PUD Master Plan showed a sports complex designated for soccer. The 2020 PUD Master Plan was revised to overlay the new WEC Polo Field and Facilities. The DRC unanimously approved the revised 2020 Master Site Plan.

The second agenda item was a waiver request to allow building permits to proceed before Major Site Plan approval for the new WEC Polo Field and Facilities. However, because the Master Site Plan mentioned above was approved, it became unnecessary to seek the waiver, and it was not considered.

LONG-TERM CONCERN

The issue regarding waivers extends far beyond this single application. Mr. Brockway’s letter caused a bit of a stir at the meeting as evidently the DRC has been routinely granting similar waivers for Major Site Plans, allowing building permits to move forward.

These waivers also set a dangerous precedent. The DRC is obligated to apply the Land Development Code as written, not grant waivers outside of their authority.

Discovering this violation of the Land Development Code is one of the main reasons why Horse Farms Forever’s watchdog mission is so important. The vigilance of the HFF watchdogs revealed a pattern of illegal waivers that have been routinely issued by the DRC.

Due to HFF’s objection and the Brockway letter, these waivers have been halted!

Always Alert

Please join our efforts by becoming a member. Your support helps protect our horse farms and equestrian way of life in Marion County.

It takes hundreds of hours to read and review every application for development. Your generous contributions help protect our rural lands, preserve our equine identity, and plan responsibly for the future.

 

Join Us Today!

Knock – Knock… Who’s there? It’s the Trojan Horse.

Knock – Knock… Who’s there? It’s the Trojan Horse.

by | Jun 22, 2026 | News, Ongoing, Watching

WEC Polo Field and Facilities approved by the County. Is it a Trojan horse?

The site plan for the WEC Polo Field and Facilities was approved at the June 22nd Development Review Committee meeting. At first glance, this may look like a victory for the equestrian community – a shiny new polo field riding in to save the day – but much like the legendary Trojan horse, what appears on the outside isn’t the whole story.

While a polo field is planned today, the long-term plan is for soccer fields and other multi-uses.

David Tillman of Tillman and Associates Engineering, the Applicant for Golden Ocala Equestrian Land on the WEC Polo Field and Facilities Waiver Request, confirmed during his public testimony at the Development Review Committee Hearing held on June 22, 2026, that the equestrian-related polo fields were destined to be non-equestrian soccer fields;

Being a “Trojan horse” means appearing harmless, beneficial, or legitimate to gain someone’s trust or access to a secure area, only to unleash harm or subvert them from within. It is a metaphor rooted in the ancient Greek myth of the Trojan War. [Wikipedia]

“Do we plan on using them for soccer if the future PUD gets approved? Absolutely, we will, no question about it . There will be multi-use fields that will get multi-use for a multitude of uses.”

Be sure to watch the whole video below for his full comments.

The “equestrian use” of polo fields sounds interesting, but the real plan is to use the polo fields for soccer and other multi-uses once the Charlotte Weber litigation, which Mr. Tillman described as “unfounded” is resolved.

View the Legal Challenge

The 2020 PUD

With this site plan approval, Golden Ocala can begin construction under the previously approved 2020 Planned Unit Development (PUD). The March 2026 PUD for the Sports Complex is on hold due to the lawsuit.

Due to the restrictions in the 2020 PUD, the use is restricted to polo or a Cross Country course – at least until the courts have their say.

View the 2020 PUD Site Plan
View the Updated Site Plan

Always Alert

The Horse Farms Forever watchdogs are actively monitoring this waiver request and we will keep our members updated!

Your generous contributions help protect our rural lands, preserve our equine identity, and plan responsibly for the future.

 

Join Us Today!

BREAKING NEWS – WEC Applies to Replace Soccer Fields with Polo Fields!

BREAKING NEWS – WEC Applies to Replace Soccer Fields with Polo Fields!

by | Jun 20, 2026 | News, Watching

Marco? Polo!
Or is this a Trojan Horse? 

Golden Ocala wants to swap soccer fields for polo fields at the WEC Sports Complex. They are requesting a waiver to allow release of building permits prior to approval of the Major Site Plan at the June 22 Development Review Committee meeting.

After being relabeled from soccer fields to polo fields, Growth Services determined the plan could move forward under Golden Ocala’s existing 2020 PUD approval.

The proposed “WEC Polo Field and Facilities” site plan looks very similar to the soccer fields that were approved in March 2026 as part of the Sports Complex, which is currently facing administrative and legal challenges.

View the Legal Challenge
View Our Letter of Objection

See the site plans below for the March 2026 soccer fields and the proposed June 2026 polo fields. 

These are the original Overall Site Plans submitted showing soccer fields.

Three of the soccer fields have been combined for the main polo field, in the shaded area along HWY 40. 

The top two rows of the previous 8 soccer fields are now for training, according to the Growth Services staff report.

To the Horse Farm Forever watchdogs, there sure seems to be a lot of similarity.  This is especially interesting since a typical regulation polo field is 3 times larger than a regulation soccer field!

Maybe there is a different regulation size polo field for trojan horses? 

Polo Fields are 3 Times Larger

  • Polo Fields have an overall length of 300 yard and width of 160 yards for a total area of 432,000 ft²
  • FIFA rules dictate a precise size of 110 to 120 yards long by 70 to 80 yards wide for a total area of approximately 76,823 ft² for a professional Soccer Field.

No Horse Barns for Trojan Horses?

The soccer fields have become polo fields, so where are the horse barns? It seems as though Trojan horses don’t need a stall, as there are no horse barns. Also, where is the parking lot for all the horse trailers?

Land Use Limited to Equestrian Estates

Concerns have also been raised regarding land-use restrictions tied to this property – now proposed for polo fields – which limits the land use to low residential “Equestrian Estates.”

In 2017, approximately 1,000 acres were removed from the Farmland Preservation Area to allow for the World Equestrian Center. That approval was based on a Development Agreement: these estates would serve as a buffer between the World Equestrian Center and the new boundary of the Farmland Preservation Area, and Equestrian Estates are the only allowed use. 

 

Perhaps we should all ask Growth Services, why the site plan with polo fields doesn’t have barns for the horses or parking for the horse trailers?

Contact Growth Services

The waiver request for the building permits will be heard by the Development Review Committee (DRC) at 9:00 AM on Monday, June 22.

DRC Agenda - See Items 5.4 and 6.1

Always Alert

The Horse Farms Forever watchdogs are actively monitoring this waiver request and we will keep our members updated!

Your generous contributions help protect our rural lands, preserve our equine identity, and plan responsibly for the future.

 

Join Us Today!