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Agenda Item
21. Public hearing: Pro Pony, LLC's appeal of the Washoe County Board of Adjustment's failure to approve Special Use Permit Case Number WSUP23-0029 and opposing neighbor Jill Brandin's appeal, filed to preserve her right to judicial review. Pro Pony, LLC requests approval of a special use permit to bring an existing legal non-conforming commercial stable to board 35 horses into conformance with Washoe County Code and to allow for the construction of a 13,500 SF indoor riding arena structure. Pro Pony, LLC is also requesting modifications to remove the requirement for paved parking surfaces to allow non-paved surfaces (110.410.25(e)) and to waive landscape standards for commercial uses (110.412.40(a-d)).
The applicant and property owner is Pro Pony, LLC. The address is 3400 Holcomb Ranch Lane (Silver Circle Ranch) in Reno. The Assessor's Parcel Number is 040-670-12.
The Board of County Commissioners shall consider the appeal based on the record and any testimony and materials submitted at the public hearing. The Board of County Commissioners may approve or deny the special use permit. Community Services. (Commission District 2.) FOR POSSIBLE ACTION
I am a neighbor of Silver Circle Ranch and am an ardent supporter of Pro Pony and Pair of Aces Stables efforts to erect 4 walls and a roof over an arena that currently exists on the property. I also agree that they should be given a waiver so that they can keep the roads on the property graveled as it is safer for the horses as they are moved around on the property. Both Landess Witmer and Liz Reader have been excellent neighbors and I greatly appreciate their efforts to maintain the equestrian culture in South Reno.
With the weather we have here it would be really nice to have somewhere that is not weather dependent for horseback riding. Facilities are already few and far between, it would be nice to have one here in town. This business has already shown that they are very ethical and have been conceding to numerous requests about this building. It does not appear that it will change anything about the current operations as far traffic flow or capacity. In my opinion it will benefit all current and future users of the facility.
I AM IN A NEIGHBOR IN FAVOR! To whom it may concern: My name is William (Bill) Creekbaum and I have lived in Reno/Washoe County for about 23 years and in Northern Nevada for 33 years. I am Past President of The Rotary Club of Reno, Past Chair of UNR Planned Giving Advisory Council, Past Board Member of Community Foundation of Northern Nevada Finance Committee, Current President of the Estate Planning Council of Northern Nevada and member of Prospectors Club. I hold a MBA degree from UNR. We live within a couple of miles from the historic Silver Circle Ranch. For all these years, I have admired the beauty of the old South West Reno. We live there now because of the horse land. I'm very proud of this countryside and moved there because of the lower density rural housing close to town. I've always heard that Silver Circle Ranch was a neighborhood working stable, with horse clinics and shows. We love to see children riding their ponies there when we drive or run by. My daughter, Delaney, grew up riding horses as well. I am so glad they are updating their arena for the weather we get here in Reno. I am in TOTAL and COMPLETE SUPPORT of the indoor arena proposed; it will help children to ride safely year-around. We think this is a simple matter of personal property rights. As our Commissioners, please VOTE YES for this opportunity for future generations of horse riders. Approve the growth of horse property for our children. PLEASE VOTE APPROVAL. This meeting date has changed twice and I am out of the area and could not change my calendar. Otherwise, I would have been present during this important meeting. Sincerely, your constituent, Bill & Laurie Creekbaum
At Silver Circle Ranch, the dream of a new indoor horse riding arena is more than just a vision; it's a commitment to the welfare of our horses and the enrichment of our community. Approving this appeal is not merely a bureaucratic process; it's a significant step toward fostering a thriving equestrian community. By granting this appeal, decision-makers contribute to the betterment of our local equestrian culture, supporting both seasoned riders and novices alike. I implore the authorities to recognize the lasting benefits this arena will bring, and in doing so, approve this appeal to make a lasting and positive impact on Silver Circle Ranch and its vibrant community.
This indoor space will help foster the growth of the sport, and help allow easier access to honing the craft even during extreme weather. Equestrian has an important history here in Nevada, and we should continue to support projects such as this indoor arena, to help it successfully continue into the future.
As a dedicated member and employee of Silver Circle Ranch for several years, I am wholeheartedly in favor of constructing the proposed indoor facility. This addition is not only crucial for our community but also immensely beneficial for our horses. The ranch has profoundly impacted both my life and that of my grandmother, who entrusted her horses to the exceptional care of Silver Circle in the 1970s and 80s. I strongly advocate for the approval of this indoor arena to ensure the continued legacy and excellence of this remarkable place.
Thank you for considering this important initiative.
I write in support of Pro Pony LLC at The Historic Silver Circle Ranch, 3400 Holcomb Ranch Lane, Reno, 89511 and its efforts to build a safe lesson and riding area for its riders and horses. I have seen the proposed plans and rendering for the indoor arena. The arena will blend in with the many established trees that surround the arena and because the ground is lower than the road, only a small portion of the building will even be seen from the road. It is just like other houses along the road are seen, as a building among the trees.
Winter and Fall in Reno can be harsh, cold, windy, rainy along with snow and ice. An indoor arena offers safety and shelter for the horse and rider during the worst of weather. An indoor arena also provides shelter when rain and wind make for impossible riding days.
The youth and adult amateurs at the Pair of Aces Stables are lucky to have this barn and a highly qualified professional trainer to work with. It is a piece of heaven in our community; a way to enjoy the country, but still be close to home and the urban city area. I often drive past the Silver Circle Ranch and marvel at the lifestyle afforded this community: horses, cows, peacocks and longhorn steer among beautiful new contemporary along with historic style homes.
An indoor arena will not increase traffic, it will only raise the quality of life for the current clientele, versus traffic, noise and activity that the new housing division has caused!
The Silver Circle Ranch is a valuable equestrian location for the local equestrian community. There has been a decline in available horse show locations in the Reno area over the years, but this location has been a valued and beautiful property for shows, clinics, and educational meetings for many years.
Even though I am not directly impacted or involved by this particular barn/stable, I still support and encourage it as the right thing to do, as a positive influence and part of the equestrian community. Instead of focusing on the negatives, try to look at the positives and what this enterprise can do for the community and surrounding areas.
I believe this is a worthy and very worthwhile endeavor and hope that you can help this dream come to fruition for all involved.
Approving this indoor arena does not differ much from any large houses, barns, or buildings in the area. As many other neighbors also have animals such as horses, dogs, cows, and goats so, any stench or noise can very well come from any of those other properties, not just Silver Circle Ranch. I am a current rider at Pair Of Aces Stables and an addition of an indoor arena would be highly beneficial from severe weather and it would be greatly appreciated and valued from the whole Silver Circle Ranch community. Thank you.
A local indoor arena for riding horses at the Silver Circle Ranch would allow for safer horse riding during winter weather. Equestrian history is a cornerstone of Reno’s cultures and should be preserved and nurtured.
As a neighbor to this project for over 50 years I stand in support of Silver Circle Ranch and their desire to build an indoor arena. Let's acknowledge the diversity of our community and continue to support the equestrian development which has Long been a part of southwest Reno.
The stable offers an important place for children to learn responsibility and be active. Adding an indoor arena would enhance safety for the children during the winter months and be aesthetically pleasing for the property.
I am writing this email in passionate support of the proposal for an indoor arena at Silver Circle Ranch. I am not just another client or friend that has been leaned on for support, I am born, raised and made a life in South Reno for the last 40 years. As a young child I grew up off Lakeside on Frost Lane. There was no neighborhood, no friends, just my horses and my dogs to grow up with. I would ride my horse down Lakeside Drive to Bartley Ranch to use the arena and watch the beautiful Rancharrah indoor arena being built as a child. That was my dream, to ride somewhere protected, safe and out of the elements. Now I have that same dream for my daughter who has been riding horses for a few years.
There is nothing of its kind that exists currently in our community in South Reno. Any horseman or resident of South Reno would tell you that horses are a large part of small enclave of ranchettes that are still intact off of Holcomb Ranch and Lakeside Drive. If an indoor arena was to be approved and built, I would never flinch seeing its presence as I drive those roads, as it makes sense in backdrop, surrounded by pastures, horses and cattle. What does make me cringe is some of these horrific, modern, multi-colored custom homes that were allowed to be built and have ruined the landscape and clog traffic with all the construction trucks.
As far as water, ditches and runoff are unimpeded and have been well managed since the genesis of this ranch. SCR affecting water rights is a non issue. Any nearby development WILL affect water rights, well levels and the water table. The arena will be tucked away tastefully under large oak trees and obscured by the natural topography of the land. There is great opportunity to build something beautiful, safe and secluded, fostering generations of riders.
The children in our community have the Swift Sportsdome and Reno Indoor Ice to grant year round practice. Be the commissioners that bring the first indoor equestrian arena into this area to help kids ride in safety year-round.
I support the Silver Circle Ranch. I was born and raised in Reno, I grew up riding horses in the neighborhood. It is so important to have an indoor riding facility during our winter months and our extreme hot summer days. I would have loved to have such a facility.
I am in support of approving the indoor arena at the Historic Silver Circle Ranch. Approving the build of this indoor arena will provide increased safety for our riders, horses, trainers, and parents and this arena will provide riders the opportunity to ride during all times of the year.
Approving the indoor arena will not increase traffic. Even when it is too snowy or icy to ride, unmounted lessons are still offered, so the same riders will be coming to the barn during their normal lesson time, which will not contribute to an increase in traffic.
Additionally, this project meets every Washoe County Staff finding and the indoor arena speaks to our Nevada roots. Being a 6th generation Nevada native, I understand the importance of keeping neighborhoods like this a rural community. The proposed indoor arena will not change this rural community feel as we are a neighbor within a 3.5 mile radius and highly support this project.
Your consideration in approving the indoor arena project at the Historic Silver Circle Ranch is greatly appreciated. Approving this, will help riders develop their skills and be able to become better riders by giving them opportunities to advance their skills in a safe environment, away from the wind, snow, and extreme heat.
I am in support of the historic Silver Circle Ranch and request you approve the special use permit (SUP) that would bring the existing licensed commercial stable into conformance with current Washoe County Code and to allow for the enclosure of the small dressage size riding arena (i.e., at 13,500 square feet this is approximately one quarter the size of the soon to be demolished Rancharrah Equestrian Center’s 52,000-square-foot indoor arena[note: a football field is 360 feet x 160 feet or 57,600 square feet]).
All improvements requested by the county have been completed and the facility in now in compliance with the county codes and SUP specifications.
A local indoor arena for those who ride at Silver Circle Ranch would allow for safer rides during winter. Reno’s equestrian history is rich and should be preserved.
I drive past Silver Circle Ranch 3-4 times a week. I have horses so understand what its like to work with or ride my horse or NOT in the winter or really hot weather. It’s nice to see the ranch back in use and an indoor arena is a must, especially in the winter for the safety of the horses and riders. Plus, the indoor arena DOES MEET EVERY FINDING AND IS 6FT below what is allowed.
I am a Nevada resident and I support the HSCR indoor project
I am a neighbor of Silver Circle Ranch and am an ardent supporter of Pro Pony and Pair of Aces Stables efforts to erect 4 walls and a roof over an arena that currently exists on the property. I also agree that they should be given a waiver so that they can keep the roads on the property graveled as it is safer for the horses as they are moved around on the property. Both Landess Witmer and Liz Reader have been excellent neighbors and I greatly appreciate their efforts to maintain the equestrian culture in South Reno.
I believe the stable will be beneficial to the community.
With the weather we have here it would be really nice to have somewhere that is not weather dependent for horseback riding. Facilities are already few and far between, it would be nice to have one here in town. This business has already shown that they are very ethical and have been conceding to numerous requests about this building. It does not appear that it will change anything about the current operations as far traffic flow or capacity. In my opinion it will benefit all current and future users of the facility.
I AM IN A NEIGHBOR IN FAVOR! To whom it may concern: My name is William (Bill) Creekbaum and I have lived in Reno/Washoe County for about 23 years and in Northern Nevada for 33 years. I am Past President of The Rotary Club of Reno, Past Chair of UNR Planned Giving Advisory Council, Past Board Member of Community Foundation of Northern Nevada Finance Committee, Current President of the Estate Planning Council of Northern Nevada and member of Prospectors Club. I hold a MBA degree from UNR. We live within a couple of miles from the historic Silver Circle Ranch. For all these years, I have admired the beauty of the old South West Reno. We live there now because of the horse land. I'm very proud of this countryside and moved there because of the lower density rural housing close to town. I've always heard that Silver Circle Ranch was a neighborhood working stable, with horse clinics and shows. We love to see children riding their ponies there when we drive or run by. My daughter, Delaney, grew up riding horses as well. I am so glad they are updating their arena for the weather we get here in Reno. I am in TOTAL and COMPLETE SUPPORT of the indoor arena proposed; it will help children to ride safely year-around. We think this is a simple matter of personal property rights. As our Commissioners, please VOTE YES for this opportunity for future generations of horse riders. Approve the growth of horse property for our children. PLEASE VOTE APPROVAL. This meeting date has changed twice and I am out of the area and could not change my calendar. Otherwise, I would have been present during this important meeting. Sincerely, your constituent, Bill & Laurie Creekbaum
At Silver Circle Ranch, the dream of a new indoor horse riding arena is more than just a vision; it's a commitment to the welfare of our horses and the enrichment of our community. Approving this appeal is not merely a bureaucratic process; it's a significant step toward fostering a thriving equestrian community. By granting this appeal, decision-makers contribute to the betterment of our local equestrian culture, supporting both seasoned riders and novices alike. I implore the authorities to recognize the lasting benefits this arena will bring, and in doing so, approve this appeal to make a lasting and positive impact on Silver Circle Ranch and its vibrant community.
This indoor space will help foster the growth of the sport, and help allow easier access to honing the craft even during extreme weather. Equestrian has an important history here in Nevada, and we should continue to support projects such as this indoor arena, to help it successfully continue into the future.
I support Silver Circle Ranch and their project.
As a dedicated member and employee of Silver Circle Ranch for several years, I am wholeheartedly in favor of constructing the proposed indoor facility. This addition is not only crucial for our community but also immensely beneficial for our horses. The ranch has profoundly impacted both my life and that of my grandmother, who entrusted her horses to the exceptional care of Silver Circle in the 1970s and 80s. I strongly advocate for the approval of this indoor arena to ensure the continued legacy and excellence of this remarkable place.
Thank you for considering this important initiative.
I write in support of Pro Pony LLC at The Historic Silver Circle Ranch, 3400 Holcomb Ranch Lane, Reno, 89511 and its efforts to build a safe lesson and riding area for its riders and horses. I have seen the proposed plans and rendering for the indoor arena. The arena will blend in with the many established trees that surround the arena and because the ground is lower than the road, only a small portion of the building will even be seen from the road. It is just like other houses along the road are seen, as a building among the trees.
Winter and Fall in Reno can be harsh, cold, windy, rainy along with snow and ice. An indoor arena offers safety and shelter for the horse and rider during the worst of weather. An indoor arena also provides shelter when rain and wind make for impossible riding days.
The youth and adult amateurs at the Pair of Aces Stables are lucky to have this barn and a highly qualified professional trainer to work with. It is a piece of heaven in our community; a way to enjoy the country, but still be close to home and the urban city area. I often drive past the Silver Circle Ranch and marvel at the lifestyle afforded this community: horses, cows, peacocks and longhorn steer among beautiful new contemporary along with historic style homes.
An indoor arena will not increase traffic, it will only raise the quality of life for the current clientele, versus traffic, noise and activity that the new housing division has caused!
The Silver Circle Ranch is a valuable equestrian location for the local equestrian community. There has been a decline in available horse show locations in the Reno area over the years, but this location has been a valued and beautiful property for shows, clinics, and educational meetings for many years.
Even though I am not directly impacted or involved by this particular barn/stable, I still support and encourage it as the right thing to do, as a positive influence and part of the equestrian community. Instead of focusing on the negatives, try to look at the positives and what this enterprise can do for the community and surrounding areas.
I believe this is a worthy and very worthwhile endeavor and hope that you can help this dream come to fruition for all involved.
Approving this indoor arena does not differ much from any large houses, barns, or buildings in the area. As many other neighbors also have animals such as horses, dogs, cows, and goats so, any stench or noise can very well come from any of those other properties, not just Silver Circle Ranch. I am a current rider at Pair Of Aces Stables and an addition of an indoor arena would be highly beneficial from severe weather and it would be greatly appreciated and valued from the whole Silver Circle Ranch community. Thank you.
A local indoor arena for riding horses at the Silver Circle Ranch would allow for safer horse riding during winter weather. Equestrian history is a cornerstone of Reno’s cultures and should be preserved and nurtured.
As a neighbor to this project for over 50 years I stand in support of Silver Circle Ranch and their desire to build an indoor arena. Let's acknowledge the diversity of our community and continue to support the equestrian development which has Long been a part of southwest Reno.
The stable offers an important place for children to learn responsibility and be active. Adding an indoor arena would enhance safety for the children during the winter months and be aesthetically pleasing for the property.
To whom it may concern,
I am writing this email in passionate support of the proposal for an indoor arena at Silver Circle Ranch. I am not just another client or friend that has been leaned on for support, I am born, raised and made a life in South Reno for the last 40 years. As a young child I grew up off Lakeside on Frost Lane. There was no neighborhood, no friends, just my horses and my dogs to grow up with. I would ride my horse down Lakeside Drive to Bartley Ranch to use the arena and watch the beautiful Rancharrah indoor arena being built as a child. That was my dream, to ride somewhere protected, safe and out of the elements. Now I have that same dream for my daughter who has been riding horses for a few years.
There is nothing of its kind that exists currently in our community in South Reno. Any horseman or resident of South Reno would tell you that horses are a large part of small enclave of ranchettes that are still intact off of Holcomb Ranch and Lakeside Drive. If an indoor arena was to be approved and built, I would never flinch seeing its presence as I drive those roads, as it makes sense in backdrop, surrounded by pastures, horses and cattle. What does make me cringe is some of these horrific, modern, multi-colored custom homes that were allowed to be built and have ruined the landscape and clog traffic with all the construction trucks.
As far as water, ditches and runoff are unimpeded and have been well managed since the genesis of this ranch. SCR affecting water rights is a non issue. Any nearby development WILL affect water rights, well levels and the water table. The arena will be tucked away tastefully under large oak trees and obscured by the natural topography of the land. There is great opportunity to build something beautiful, safe and secluded, fostering generations of riders.
The children in our community have the Swift Sportsdome and Reno Indoor Ice to grant year round practice. Be the commissioners that bring the first indoor equestrian arena into this area to help kids ride in safety year-round.
With thanks,
Aleise Whitlock
I support the Silver Circle Ranch. I was born and raised in Reno, I grew up riding horses in the neighborhood. It is so important to have an indoor riding facility during our winter months and our extreme hot summer days. I would have loved to have such a facility.
I am in support of approving the indoor arena at the Historic Silver Circle Ranch. Approving the build of this indoor arena will provide increased safety for our riders, horses, trainers, and parents and this arena will provide riders the opportunity to ride during all times of the year.
Approving the indoor arena will not increase traffic. Even when it is too snowy or icy to ride, unmounted lessons are still offered, so the same riders will be coming to the barn during their normal lesson time, which will not contribute to an increase in traffic.
Additionally, this project meets every Washoe County Staff finding and the indoor arena speaks to our Nevada roots. Being a 6th generation Nevada native, I understand the importance of keeping neighborhoods like this a rural community. The proposed indoor arena will not change this rural community feel as we are a neighbor within a 3.5 mile radius and highly support this project.
Your consideration in approving the indoor arena project at the Historic Silver Circle Ranch is greatly appreciated. Approving this, will help riders develop their skills and be able to become better riders by giving them opportunities to advance their skills in a safe environment, away from the wind, snow, and extreme heat.
I am in support of the historic Silver Circle Ranch and request you approve the special use permit (SUP) that would bring the existing licensed commercial stable into conformance with current Washoe County Code and to allow for the enclosure of the small dressage size riding arena (i.e., at 13,500 square feet this is approximately one quarter the size of the soon to be demolished Rancharrah Equestrian Center’s 52,000-square-foot indoor arena[note: a football field is 360 feet x 160 feet or 57,600 square feet]).
All improvements requested by the county have been completed and the facility in now in compliance with the county codes and SUP specifications.
A local indoor arena for those who ride at Silver Circle Ranch would allow for safer rides during winter. Reno’s equestrian history is rich and should be preserved.
I drive past Silver Circle Ranch 3-4 times a week. I have horses so understand what its like to work with or ride my horse or NOT in the winter or really hot weather. It’s nice to see the ranch back in use and an indoor arena is a must, especially in the winter for the safety of the horses and riders. Plus, the indoor arena DOES MEET EVERY FINDING AND IS 6FT below what is allowed.