The Milton Equestrian Committee will convene Wednesday evening for several updates and discussions – including potential targeted outreach related to permits for farms and, specifically, barns.

The October 16 meeting starts at 6:30 p.m. in City Hall’s Council Chambers (2006 Heritage Walk). People can attend in-person or watch online at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JFuuV8VnisQ.

Sometimes referred to as MEC, the Milton Equestrian Committee consists of seven individuals appointed by Milton’s Mayor and Councilmembers. Together, they discuss and share their thoughts, expertise, and insights with City staff and leaders on matters of importance to the equestrian community.

Wednesday’s meeting will start with a focus on Birmingham Park, a roughly 200-acre City park that is popular with horse trail riders. Outdoor Recreation Supervisor Jen Young will ask for MEC’s input on the next “Clean-up Day” for Birmingham Park, an annual occurrence that typically happens in late winter or early spring (before leaves and greenery fully regrows).

This will be followed by subcommittee reports, including on Equestrian Facilities and Community Relations. The latter will include a debrief regarding another successful Crabapple Fest, at which Equestrian Committee members once again had a table where they engaged citizens on all things horses as well as other elements of the equestrian community and lifestyle.

The Farm Ownership subcommittee, meanwhile, will share the latest on plans to communicate with farm and barn owners who may end up seeking permits or other such City approvals. The MEC is considering sending postcards about this topic to the appropriate individuals.

The October 16 meeting’s last agenda item relates to fireworks. Fireworks’ sudden booms can alarm people as well as animals such as horses who may instinctively bolt and, in so doing, harm themselves and others. Loud fireworks are only permitted on a handful of days each year in Milton, the next being New Year’s Eve. For more context, go to www.miltonga.gov/Fireworks.

After this meeting, this City committee is next scheduled to convene on November 20.