Development Threats
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Do you know of a development threatening the Farmland Preservation Area? Contact us!
Resolved
Ears Up! We’re Watching a New Development Threat
Yesterday, we were alerted to an application with Growth Services to amend the comprehensive plan to allow a Rural Activity Center (RAC) at the intersection of N Hwy 329 and W Hwy 318 – in the heart of the Farmland Preservation Area. This property is owned by the Rudnianyns, the same proponents of the West Ocala Beltway. It is called Blitch Plantation. They are proposing an ATV racetrack with ancillary recreational uses, limited ATV sales and repair, and event venue. They are also proposing an RV park. The Planning hearing is June 1st and the Commission hearing is June 17th. We are in full alert status on this project and will be meeting with the applicants, their planner and the county staff. Stay tuned as we gather more information.
Thank You, GO-WEC!
Horse Farms Forever was able to reach an agreement with the leadership of the GO-WEC organization regarding our concerns and as a result of this agreement, we will be enthusiastically advocating for approval of the revised amendment. This agreement will preserve the Farmland Preservation Area boundary and permit only equestrian-related uses on the property located within it.
Nick de Meric Advocates Drawing A Line in the Sand
Manuden Farm, Eclipse Training Center and de Meric Stables and Sales strongly support Horse Farms Forever in its quest to preserve our precious farmland for generations to come. There is little doubt that unchecked development has been a hallmark in much of the state. Protecting the Farm Preservation Area from urban growth has become a line in the sand that should not be crossed, a sentiment that has garnered strong support from all factions of the local community. The future strength of our equine industries and the magnetic appeal of our beautiful farmland are dependent on the vision of our elected officials, and we applaud their efforts to defend one of north Florida’s greatest assets.
Why the Sport Horse Community is Investing in Marion County
The Farmland Preservation Area at the heart of Ocala creates the certainty that this environment will always remain at the core of the horse industry of Marion County. It is the reason that horse owners and equine business efforts are willing to invest in owning, developing and operating horse related activities in this very region. Without it, Ocala becomes one more stopping point in the never-ending journey of horse shows and horse activities. This is not the fabric that Ocala represented to us when we first moved and invested in our community.
Glen Hill Farm Calls on Elected Officials to Stand Firm on Farmland Preservation
Thank you, Glen Hill Farm, for pointing out how inextricably linked are the Marion County economy and the existence of horse farms. One third of our economy is equine. We join Glen Hill Farm in calling on our elected officials to do the right thing for the land and future generations.
Always Watching
We work hard to keep you informed, and to represent our members' interests in preserving our horse farms, farmland and the unique character and culture of Marion County's 193,000 acre Farmland Preservation Area.
Join the herd. Every voice matters.