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Planning panel recommends two equestrian special-use permits to county commissioners
Summary
The Dawson County Planning Commission recommended approval of two special-use rezoning requests to allow equestrian activities (Skygers Farm and Summit Ranch); the panel outlined limits on large events and said special event permits (100+ participants) trigger public-safety review. Votes were recorded 3-0 with one abstention on each case; both will go before the Board of Commissioners.
The Dawson County Planning Commission voted to recommend approval to the Board of Commissioners for two special-use rezoning requests to permit horse riding stables and related equine activities.
Laurie Verhoeven asked the commission to re-establish Skygers Farm’s prior special use so her daughter could provide limited horse training. "Mainly, it's so that she can take in clients no more than 2 to 3," Verhoeven said, telling commissioners there would be no new structures and no heavy traffic.
Summit Ranch Equestrian Park, represented by Britney Parker, said the operation currently houses about 28 horses on 56 acres and would cap at 37 horses. Parker said the ranch provides boarding, lessons and youth programming; supporters told the commission the facility offers therapeutic and community benefits. "We just wanna continue doing what we're already doing," Parker said.
Neighbors raised questions about the frequency and scale of events, lights left on overnight and shared easements. Jay Verhoeven, who said he lives directly behind one property, said his primary concern was safety if events brought the public onto the property. "My biggest concern is... the number of people," he told the commission.
County staff (Richard) explained the county’s special event process: events that anticipate 100 or more total participants (including riders, volunteers, staff and spectators) generally require a county special event permit and are vetted by public safety, environmental health and, in some cases, the Board of Commissioners — particularly when alcohol is involved. Staff noted the general special event permit allows up to 12 events per year for non-event-center properties and is intended to address traffic flow, parking, sanitation and public-safety planning.
After closing public comment commissioners moved to recommend approval for both cases; each motion carried with the record showing 3 yes, 0 no and 1 abstention. The commission advised applicants they must apply for business licenses and appear before the Board of Commissioners next month for final action.
