Details of the GO-WEC Agreement
We are pleased to share the details of the changes to Golden Ocala-World Equestrian Center’s Amendment to the Comprehensive Plan. These were agreed upon in respectful discussions between Horse Farms Forever and the GO-WEC leadership. We enthusiastically endorse the new agreement and will say so at the Board of County Commissioners hearing on May 28:
Busy Byerly: Golden Ocala and World Equestrian Center Deserve Our Thanks
The community came together to join Horse Farms Forever protecting the integrity of the Farmland Preservation Area. Now, now let’s stand together again with Golden Ocala-World Equestrian Center at the May 28 Marion County Commission meeting and advocate for the approval of their amendment to the comprehensive plan. We thank them for listening to our concerns and agreeing to join us in safeguarding the Farmland Preservation Area.
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.
Steinbrenner Family & Kinsman Farm Support Collaborative Effort to Protect Open Space
While we understand that there is a need for capital investments and improved infrastructure for the equine
industry to grow, we must simultaneously work together to protect the Farmland Preservation Area. Horse
Farms Forever was created for just that purpose which is why we wholeheartedly support Horse Farms
Forever in their continued efforts to protect the Farmland Preservation Area.
Bridlewood Farm Supports Vigorous Protection of the Farmland Preservation Area
We fully concur that WEC and the Farmland Preservation Area can and should co-exist to the benefit of all. Thank you, Bridlewood Farm and the Malone family for your continued support of Horse Farms Forever’s mission to preserve the farmland that makes Marion County unique and irreplaceable.
Golden Eggs
We respectfully urge the Roberts organization to withdraw Areas 1 and 8 from the Amendment. These areas can still be developed with appropriate limitations through other options in the planning process. Right now, they are a distraction that galvanizes community opposition. Withdrawal would help to unify the equestrian community’s support and excitement for the tremendous contribution of vision and insight that the Roberts organization brings to Ocala/Marion County.
Help Protect Our Farms - Join Today!
Together, we can help preserve the character and culture that horses, horse farms and the Farmland Preservation Area make unique to Marion County.
Join the herd. Every voice matters.
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When the farmland watchdogs sound the alarm, you’ll hear first.