Walnut Creek council approves 5‑year license for Heather Farm Equestrian Center after public outcry to preserve facility

The Walnut Creek City Council on June 17 authorized the city manager to execute a license agreement with the Equestrian Center of Walnut Creek for the premises at 390 North San Carlos Road, approving a five‑year term with an option to extend for an additional five years and directing staff to revise the facility user application to specify that rentals be for equestrian uses only.

The vote came after roughly a dozen public speakers asked the council to preserve and fund the historic equestrian facility at Heather Farm Park. Supporters described the center’s role in introducing children and adults to horses, providing therapeutic programming for veterans and people with special needs, and hosting 4‑H, pony club and other community programs.

Council discussion focused on stewardship of the city’s equestrian asset and on operational details of the license. Rich Payne, director of public works, told the council the license covers the equestrian facilities but not the adjacent parking lot, which the city rents to the Seven Hills Ranch School during school hours. Councilmember questions prompted staff to confirm the license restricts non‑equestrian rentals and that staff will add explicit language to the user application to prevent events such as loud, non‑equestrian concerts that could upset neighbors.

Public comments were strongly in favor of renewal. Speakers included longtime members and volunteers with the Equestrian Center and related groups: Therese Capels, who described participating in lessons as an adult and the center’s benefits for veterans and disadvantaged residents; Cecily Gaut, who said the center sparks lifelong involvement with horses; youth speakers, including a 9‑year‑old who thanked the council; Lori Watase Bone, a local horse trainer; representatives from the Clayton Canyon Pony Club; and Najaf Prasad, a youth 4‑H member who said the facility was where he discovered his love of riding.

Councilmember Solis moved to authorize the agreement and to require the user application be modified to reflect equestrian use; the motion was seconded and carried unanimously.

The license approval allows the Equestrian Center to continue operations on city land and keeps Heather Farm Park’s equestrian arenas available for community lessons, therapeutic programs, and competitions. The council asked staff to ensure the user application language is explicit about permissible activities and to return to council if future changes would materially increase city obligations.

The action preserves a city‑owned recreational asset the speakers said is unique among California cities and drew broad community support.