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Zoning board approves TRMF Ranchorama Rodeo redevelopment with environmental, safety conditions
Summary
The board approved TRMF’s redevelopment plan for the Ranchorama Rodeo site east of Medora, including mixed-use buildings, a horse stall building, arena and event lawn, conditioning approval on weed control, utility approvals, housing-use restrictions, trail coordination with the U.S. Forest Service, dark‑sky lighting, and other site controls.
The Billings County Zoning Board on April 16 approved application 2026-14 from the Theodore Roosevelt Medora Foundation to redevelop the Ranchorama Rodeo site east of Medora (14532 I-94 Loop East).
TRMF’s plan includes two two‑story mixed‑use buildings (one to serve Medora Riding Stables with office and classroom on the main floor and three apartments above), a second mixed‑use building with a three‑stall garage and an apartment above, a 66‑by‑120‑foot horse stall building, a new riding arena and an open grass event area with a stage, outdoor seating, a fire pit, a petting zoo and spaces for temporary vendors. The applicant described phased construction; the board approved the site plan but attached eight conditions addressing environmental controls, utilities, housing use, trail coordination, lighting, landscaping, fire protection and NDDOT approach permissions.
Key conditions include: a Weed Control Plan coordinated with the County Weed Board because of extensive ground disturbance; submission of final water and sewer documentation once approved by the Southwest District Health Unit and Southwest Water Authority or the City of Medora; apartments at the riding stables to be used for employees or long‑term rentals rather than short‑term lodging until local housing stability is established; TRMF to coordinate with the U.S. Forest Service on trail access to avoid riders crossing the I‑94 Business Loop; dark‑sky lighting required for parking and circulation; landscaping to use native grasses, shrubs and perennials when possible; coordination with city fire department for protection needs; and NDDOT permission for approach improvements if necessary.
Mary Armbrust moved to approve the application with the listed conditions; Cathy Cerkoney seconded. The board voted unanimously. The record indicates TRMF will return with additional applications for platting, structures and infrastructure for later approvals on the site.
