Ocala, Florida – A proposed sports complex of 236 acres could come to the county of Marion, but the plans arouse concerns among people of the community.
Ocala golden The World Equestrian Center seeks to modify 250 acres of its land use to develop a sports and entertainment complex off the state road 40.
It would have 17 versatile fields, 24 shorts, an arena for concerts and games, a hotel, restaurants and other versatile buildings. But before the project can start, Golden Ocala proposes to modify its designation of land use.
The chief of the Marion United Council horses organization for horses, Brian Donelly, said he was concerned about the quantity of development in the region, and worries what the project would mean for the future of land preservation and the increase in traffic.
“I hope this proposal will not pass in its current place as its proposed,” said Donelly. “They have more than enough land to use without disturbing the livelihoods of peoples.”
However, county officials say that the project is part of the full plan.
“As staff, we recommend approval, because we have the impression that this is alienating on the future use and development of land in this field,” said Marion County Growth Director Chuck Varadin. “It is in the border of urban growth.”
County commissioners will finally have a last word. And if the staff approves the plan, he will go to the state for examination.
Since the project is still in the preliminary phase, the county will hold five public hearings on the proposed development and the full plan in the coming months. The meeting of the planning and zoning commission will take place on June 30.