Three Days that Shook the Equestrian Preserve

Oppose Rezoning & Over Development in Wellington Equestrian Preserve

Mr. Bellissimo has put forward a proposal in Wellington, Florida  that has raised concerns among residents. Known as Wellington North and Wellington South, this master plan, developed by WEP in collaboration with the Global Equestrian Group, aims to construct numerous homes on small-sized lots. However, this plan contradicts the spirit, design, and referendum approved by the Village of Wellington (VOW) voters. The proposal deviates from the current focus on horses and farms, and if implemented, it will have irreversible effects on the village, altering its character in undesirable ways. 

Additionally, the plan includes a proposition to sell 80 acres of land to the Global Equestrian Group, enabling an expansion of the showgrounds. However, this sale is contingent upon a substantial zoning change for the designated land. The entire plan seems to be crafted primarily for the benefit of Mr. Bellissimo and the developers, disregarding the overwhelming support for the referendum passed by the voters. Its implementation will have adverse effects on property values, traffic, noise levels, water resources, and property taxes. Furthermore, it will diminish the peaceful nature that currently defines the Wellington Village.

Removing land from the Equestrian Preserve will not expand and improve the Equestrian Facilities and Industry as advertised but it will increase traffic congestion by allowing high density housing and more retail.  If one parcel in the Preserve is allowed to rezone to high density residential then how can the Village stop other landowners from demanding the same which would eventually force the equestrians out. Many non-equestrians along with equestrians move to Wellington to enjoy the lifestyle and quality schools which are a direct result of the impact of the abundant equestrian activities. The equestrian industry is the biggest revenue driver for the Village and County, year after year, bringing in dollars close to the level of what some cities receive only once if they host a Super Bowl ($300-$600 million). This lifestyle and revenue will cease if the equestrian community has to relocate to another part of Florida because there will no longer be enough land in Wellington to support the infrastructure required for world class equestrian competition. Wellington’s unique status as the “Equestrian Capital of the World” will transition to “typical Florida bedroom community”.

What Can Be Done To Stop This

To halt these developments, it is imperative for every homeowner and equestrian in the village to undertake two crucial tasks. Firstly, sign the petition opposing this proposal by clicking on the provided link. Secondly, make sure to attend the critical village meeting scheduled for June 7th and 8th, where you can voice your objections directly to the council. Your active participation and collective voices can make a significant impact in safeguarding the future of Wellington.

“If Preservation is NOT forever? What good is it anyway?”
– Victoria McCullough

Submit Your Feedback to The Village of Wellington

In addition to signing Petition it is important for Village to have public record of opposition. Please complete this brief form; 1. In drop down select Both The Wellington South/North 2. Check Oppose 3. Brief comment e.g. I oppose removing Equestrian Preserved land from the Equestrian Preserve for residential development and overdeveloping Wellington in general.