Planning commission gives conceptual backing to equestrian therapy plan on Oakdale Drive property

Petitioners seeking to create an equestrian therapy operation on an 85-acre property on Oakdale Drive got broadly favorable conceptual feedback from the planning commission, which highlighted wetlands, road access and future phasing constraints.

Sean (village planner) said the concept would split roughly 15 acres for a commercial equestrian facility and reserve the remainder for a future residential subdivision. The commission was told the parcel includes wetlands and areas of high groundwater that could limit buildable area.

"The way equestrian facilities are defined in the ordinance, commercial recreational and therapeutic uses involving horses are permitted with appropriate site-plan and plan-of-operation review," Sean said, noting the project would still require comprehensive-plan and zoning steps.

Petitioner Shane Vaughn described plans for therapeutic riding, field trips and small-group lessons, and said the facility would be used for community programs and family activities. Commissioners expressed support for the therapy aspect and encouraged the petitioner to proceed through the September comprehensive-plan amendment process and to coordinate with staff on road connections and stormwater.

Commissioners also asked for soil and hydrology testing, and for future phases to respect cul-de-sac length limits and necessary frontage requirements for any new lots. The commission did not take formal zoning action at the meeting but advised the petitioner to work with staff on the next procedural steps.