(PRNewswire) -  The Environmental Resource Compliance Bureau of the South Florida Water Management District has stopped all work on the World Dressage Complex because of serious violations on “construction and operation without a permit.”

In a letter sent to Mark Bellissimo of Far Niete Stables II, LLC, they were informed that they are in violation of Sections 373.413 and 373.416 of the Florida Statues and Section 40E-4.041 of the Florida Administrative Code.  These statutes and rules require that a permit be obtained from the South Florida Water Management District prior to constructing a stormwater management system, dam, impoundment or reservoir.

In a recent order by the South Florida Water Management District, all further construction on the World Dressage Complex has stopped immediately until proper authorization is obtained from the District.  As a result of the violation, the District is seeking civil penalties and recovery of staff investigative costs and may require restoration of the site.

“We thank the South Florida Water Management District for pinpointing the violation and stopping construction immediately.  Unfortunately this is what happens when you have a developer with a history of building first and getting approval second,” said Mat Forrest, Executive Director for the Wellington Equestrian Preservation Alliance.  ”This is why the voters of Wellington wanted new leadership. They don’t want developers having free reign to do as they please in the Village.”

The Wellington Equestrian Preservation Alliance is a group of concerned citizens fighting to enhance Wellington Florida’s trademark Equestrian business and protect the local equestrian economy from over-development, rampant real estate speculation and shortsighted economic planning.  www.wellingtonalliance.com

Contact: Glen Calder (561) 750-9800 ext. 216

SOURCE Wellington Equestrian Preservation Alliance