A Lexington panel will consider Friday whether to grant a permit that would allow a campground for 444 recreational vehicles on a farm near the Kentucky Horse Park during the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.
Daniel Sexton, who operates a mobile home and RV park in Georgetown, has filed a request to establish a temporary RV campground on his 90-acre farm on Old Iron Works Pike. Sexton owns Spindletop Estates Mobile Home Park in nearby Scott County.
A host of farm-related organizations opposes the proposed campground, including the Fayette County Farm Bureau and Kentucky Thoroughbred Association, but Lexington's planning staff has recommended that the Board of Adjustment approve Sexton's request for a conditional use permit, subject to 13 conditions.
One condition states that removal of garbage and sewage from the farm must comply with Fayette County health department standards.
Sexton would supply water and have trucks to haul away trash and waste water, said attorney Richard Murphy, who represents Sexton. Kentucky Utilities will erect temporary poles and utility lines to supply the RVs with electricity.
The planning staff also would require Sexton to stockpile the top soil excavated for a 20-foot wide gravel road. After the games, the gravel would be removed, the soil replaced, and disturbed areas seeded and covered with straw.
Sexton could not erect temporary buildings or tents on the site, and the campground could not remain in operation after Nov. 1.
Spaces would rent for $60 to $90 a night. WEG volunteers will receive a 20 percent discount, Murphy said.
The Fayette Alliance, an agricultural land advocacy organization, is among those opposing the proposed campground. Executive director Knox van Nagell said Fayette County's Rural Land Management Plan recommends that such non-agricultural uses of rural land be kept to a minimum.
"This is a substantial campsite that, if we are not careful, could fundamentally alter the capability of that farm to return to agriculture," van Nagell said.
There's also a concern that allowing the campground, even temporarily, could set a precedent and open up other rural areas for similar types of campsites, she said.
Also opposing Sexton's request is Hagyard Davidson McGee veterinarians, Cobra Farm manager Mike Owens and the Rural Land Management Board.
The Board of Adjustment meets at 1 p.m. Friday in council chambers at the Lexington-Fayette Government Center, 200 East Main Street.
