OAKLEY -- Anyone interested in seeing Oakley establish an equestrian center is invited to voice opinions and suggestions at a meeting the city is hosting this week.

Moderated by Mayor Kevin Romick, the public gathering will be held from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday in the council chamber at City Hall, 3231 Main St.

Proponents of the idea will describe what they would like to have -- a spacious facility that includes an arena and a large expanse of land where horse enthusiasts can hold shows and competitions -- as well as identifying possible sites and sharing thoughts on how the project might be financed.

The premises also could be used by young people involved in 4-H and National FFA Organization, groups that need a place to raise and show livestock, said Oakley resident and horse owner Nancy D'Cruz.

In addition, she and others say a place that caters to the area's equestrian community could double as a venue for farmers markets that showcase locally produced wines and produce, thereby highlighting two facets of Oakley's rural roots.

D'Cruz is among a loose-knit group of horse lovers who have created a Facebook page named PACE Oakley -- Promoting Agricultural Community & Equestrian in East Contra Costa -- to promote their interests.

They maintain that a riding facility would draw visitors from around Northern California and beyond, reinvigorating Oakley's economy with the additional sales tax revenue they would generate

Contact Rowena Coetsee at 925-779-7141. Follow her at Twitter.com/RowenaCoetsee.