Horse Farms Are An Asset To Newtown

To the Editor,

We have been following with interest your coverage of Zoar Ridge Stables’ intention to make modifications to its property, and the protests of some of the nearby residents to those proposed changes.

My wife and I moved to Newtown just over three years ago; we were immediately taken by Newtown’s rural charm and its horse farming tradition and culture. In our time as residents, our attraction to that tradition has only grown stronger. We consider ourselves blessed that we have two horse farms very close to our home, and many more within walking distance. Our property is part of a longer local riding trail, and we offer right of way to riders without hesitation. We consider ourselves lucky to sit with our children and watch horses pace through our back yard.  This equine tradition and this culture are one of the elements that make Newtown a special place, one that is not at all like some of our over-built and overly suburban Fairfield County neighboring towns.

We have read the increasingly negative and shrill comments from neighbors of Zoar Ridge Stables, and are dismayed by this single issue: Why did folks purchase homes next to a horse farm if they were disturbed at the prospect of living next to a horse farm? The idea that a horse farm could decrease property values seems silly to us. Perhaps this would be true in a more sterile suburban town, or some type of gated community. But the very character of Newtown is defined by the fact that it is not a gated community; in fact, much of its character comes from its horse farming tradition and legacy. It is something that makes Newtown special, unique, and yes – it certainly increases the attractiveness and value of our homes. As other towns build (or have long since built) to their limits, this unique character will only become more rare, and more valued by all Newtown residents, and by those seeking to join us.

The horse farm now known as Zoar Ridge Stables has been there since 1958. I would ask the residents surrounding the farm to consider the extreme alternative; what is their optimal solution – that the farm be split into evenly divided one acre lots, complete with identical four bedroom homes? The farm should not overwhelm the neighborhood, but neither is the farm a manicured private park, there solely for the viewing pleasure of the neighbors. Newtown’s very character supports the right of the farm to make improvement, to improve, and to survive.

We would like the Sullivans to know that we appreciate the character their farm adds to our town. We have grown to love living in Newtown, not in spite of its horse farms – in some measure because of its horse farms. Though we don’t live right next door, we hope the Sullivans will consider us good neighbors and supportive Newtown residents.

Sincerely,

Michael and Laura Biafore

7 Arlyn Ridge Road                           April 14, 2000