Horse Boarders Upset by Plans for Restaurant

People who board horses at the financially troubled Los Angeles Equestrian Center said Tuesday that they are upset by plans to build a medieval-theme restaurant on the property, from which diners could watch jousting matches.

Some of those who rent stalls said Tuesday that they fear the restaurant, patterned after a successful Buena Park establishment, would eliminate open space for exercising and riding horses. The jousting arena would be part of the restaurant grounds.

They also oppose plans by center executives to sell 300 horse stalls, which now are rented. The stalls are to be sold for $24,000 or financed over 10 years for $30,000. A representative of the horse owners said many of those who pay $320 a month for boarding may not be able to afford to purchase stalls.

The proposals are part of a reorganization plan by a Los-Angeles-based financial group to improve the center’s fiscal situation. The center, on property owned by the City of Los Angeles, sought protection in 1984 from creditors under Chapter 11 of the U. S. Bankruptcy Code.

J. Albert Garcia, center president, said the restaurant would not eliminate available open space. He said boarders would still be able to rent some of the remaining 800 stalls.

The plan will be considered by Los Angeles Parks and Recreation officials next week.