Twisted Willow Farm moved a step closer March 19 to building an indoor horse arena and 20-stall barn in Edgecomb. The planning board approved their site plan review, 4-0, with one abstention. The property is owned by Ron and Juliette Cohen. Twisted Willow Farm is a partnership between the Cohens and Rebecca Abbott.The planning board voted after a holding a public hearing.

Planning board members Rebecca Graham and Phil Haas visited the property on Feb. 28 and reported "no issues." The board also shared information from the state Department of Environmental Protection. Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry and Environmental Protection Agency who also gave a positive report.

Two neighbors spoke glowingly about how much they looked forward to seeing the project completed. The farm currently has eight horses and four donkeys housed temporarily in a building.

"My kids love going out there. It's the light of their afternoon," said resident Paul Davis. Kathy Hartley, a retired teacher, is also supportive of the proposal. "I live right across the street. We are thrilled something is being put up there so kids can do something outside. We think it's wonderful, and appreciate all the hard work," she said.

But not everyone was happy with the proposed indoor riding arena and 20-stall barn. A neighbor, Charlotte Nutt of 113 River Road, questioned the project several times at the hearing. She mainly questioned the structure's location so near local clam flats. "I think its wonderful and a neat opportunity for the town. I just question the location because it drains directly into clam flats," she said. Resident Kirk Hoppe had concerns about the property handling manure for 20-plus horses and other assorted animals. He harkened back to a time when previous owner had fewer animals. "Two streams flow through my property and I'm concerned with the fresh water going into the cove with this much manure, this many animals," he said.   

Abbott said the owners have a manure management plan and didn't foresee any problems. She also reported she spoke to the previous owner, who at times, had as many as a dozen horses on the property. "There is a manure management plan as part of the application. I've contacted five different landscapers and excavation companies that will take the manure," she said. "Some will be stored across the street as compost. Some of that will be used to revegetate a plot across the street."

The Cohens and Abbott still need to cross one final hurdle. They need a building permit from the code enforcement officer. Cohen will fill out an application the week of March 23.

The planning board meets next at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 2 in the conference room.