Family gets town approval to have horse-riding arena

After a 14-month process, the Elsila family has received permission to have a horse-riding arena on their Town of Saukville property.

The Town Board on Tuesday approved a conditional-use permit for resident David Elsila to operate a riding arena at 4040 Hwy. I. The town previously denied his request in May 2017.

Elsila said he wants a horse-riding arena so his daughter Alyssa Thompson can ride during the winter to keep their horses in shape. His daughter also works with youngsters in 4-H who can’t afford to maintain a horse on their own.

In February, the Town Board created an ordinance to allow for horse-riding arenas or accessory structures by conditional use in certain zoning districts

The ordinance involves small parcels of land that are 10 acres or less. It requires riding arenas or accessory structures to be no more than 8,500 square feet with a maximum height of 28 feet. The building’s setback would require a minimum of 75 feet, but the Planning Commission previously concluded that it can increase the setback at its discretion.

During a public hearing for the ordinance, more than 20 residents expressed their support and criticism for Elsila’s request. 

Those critical of the ordinance said it could set a precedent in the town for allowing larger structures and that the wording of regulations for the structures is too ambiguous.