The Whitewater Township Zoning Board of Appeals voted unanimously last night to overturn the township zoning administrator's earlier decision that would have allowed Horse Shows By The Bay (HSBB) equestrian festival to be considered a “use by right” on a new 100-acre home on Supply Road. Whitewater's zoning ordinance allows for a “riding academy” or “stable” on the land, which the zoning administrator ruled could describe HSBB.

But an attorney representing 20 property owners neighboring the parcel challenged that finding at Thursday night’s meeting, stating that “riding stables and academies are allowed (as a use by right) – festivals are not.” More than a dozen residents spoke during public comment to express fears HSBB would bring traffic, construction, pollution and noise to their quiet enclave. “The intense festival use…clearly shows it’s not a riding academy or stable,” said one resident. Agreed another: “This use is not intended for a recreational zone."

Board members sided with residents, noting HSBB describes itself as a festival on its application, and overturned the use-by-right decision. The township planning commission is now expected to review the zoning ordinance to determine how the township defines “riding academy” and “stable." If that board decides to refine or alter the zoning ordinance, HSBB would likely return before the zoning board of appeals for another review.