08/29/2026
Public Access and Grassroots Equestrian Sport Are Under Threat in Palm Beach County.
Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation has notified local clubs—including the Palm Beach Posse—that Jim Brandon Equestrian Center is scheduled to close on April 30, 2027.
County officials cite operational deficits and are actively seeking a third-party operator to take over management.
Why This Matters to Every Local Horseman
Jim Brandon Equestrian Center at Okeeheelee Park South is one of the last remaining public, accessible equestrian facilities in South Florida. For decades, it has served as the backbone of grassroots showing, 4-H programs, local open shows, schooling, and recreational riding.
If this facility transitions to a commercial third-party operator without strict public protections, our local community risks facing steep venue fee hikes, loss of weekend show dates, restricted trail access, and the potential displacement of the non-profit clubs that make local equestrian sport possible. Furthermore, Jim Brandon serves as a vital staging and emergency relief hub during severe storm events.
What We Must Do Now
We need every rider, trainer, parent, trail enthusiast, and supporter to make their voice heard before decisions are finalized at the county level.
Email the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners: Write directly to your district commissioner and the Parks & Recreation Director. Politely state that Jim Brandon must remain an affordable, publicly accessible park for local residents and non-profit organizations.
Attend Board Meetings:
Fill the chambers during upcoming County Commission meetings. Visible community representation is essential.
Demand Protection in Any Future Contracts: If the county pursues a third-party management model, the RFP must legally guarantee affordable rates, dedicated calendar dates for local clubs, and open public access.
Share This Message: Pass this alert to every barn, club, trail group, and local riding community in South Florida.
Our local equine community depends on action taken today. Let’s protect Jim Brandon Equestrian Center for generations to come.
Feel free to copy, paste, and distribute this statement across your pages, social channels, and local equestrian groups.
