The Milton Equestrian Committee will meet Wednesday for its final planned discussion on ways to incentivize property owners to keep their lots of 3 acres or bigger.

This “large lot” item is one of two on the agenda for the September 17 MEC meeting, which will begin at 6:30 p.m. in City Hall’s Council Chambers. Anyone can attend in-person or watch online at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4LJ9ynJKxYI.

Also known as MEC, the Milton Equestrian Committee consists of seven individuals appointed to the City’s Mayor and Councilmembers. They consider matters of importance to the equestrian community – sharing their opinions, expertise, and insights with City staff and elected officials.

City staff have regularly consulted with Equestrian Committee members in recent months to get their perspective on proposals to give people more reasons to maintain the size, or even possibly grow, their “large lots” (which are defined as 3 acres or more). This continues years-long efforts by the City to encourage the creation and maintenance of such spacious lots that contribute to Milton’s unique sense of place, including its scenic rural viewsheds. 

Several possible new incentives are up for consideration. These include expedited approval of home-based businesses with accessory structures on large lots and for covered riding arenas on 10-plus acre parcels. Waiving tax occupational certificate fees for commercial horse farms and increasing flexibility for property access points will be discussed as well. 

The plan is for City staff to gather MEC’s recommendations after Wednesday and share them with the City Council at a meeting this fall. 

The other item on Wednesday’s Equestrian Committee agenda is about setting a date for the 2026 edition of Meet the Neighbors, an open-to-all event celebrating the equestrian lifestyle with vendors, activities, and more. Inclement weather forced the cancelation of last year’s Meet the Neighbors. 

After Wednesday, MEC is next scheduled to convene on October 15.