Public Input Needed for Loyal's Farmers' Market
Monday, May 11th, 2015 -- 9:39 AM
Imagine a vibrant farmer's market that is a community destination?a market that is a great place to shop, linger, and chat with your neighbors, while strengthening the local economy. Or, imagine a market that is part of a larger, four-season community festival area. Do you have ideas to achieve such a vision? Do you have a vision of your own? If so, your help is needed.This year, Loyal was one of 26 communities selected nationwide to participate in Local Foods, Local Places ? a federal initiative by the White House that will provide technical assistance from a team of experts to integrate Loyal's local food systems into community economic action plans.
On May 19th and May 20th, a full team of experts will visit the City of Loyal to work with residents, community leaders, elected officials and all others who want to exchange ideas and generate an action plan for Loyal's Farmers' Market. The community discussion and workshop will result in a next steps Action Plan to better integrate Loyal Farmers' Market into the downtown revitalization strategy for the community.
"This project is being facilitated by skilled experts who have produced such plans throughout the United States. They are partnering with many different agency resources to bring all their expertise in this type of development and revitalization to our county. But the solutions must come from the local participants," says Sheila Nyberg of CCEDC. "Our county communities should also take part in this activity and glean ideas for their areas."
There will are two parts of this event, both to occur at the Loyal City Hall. On May 19th from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, community members will discuss their vision, goals, and a preferred location for the Loyal Farmers' Market. Alternative sites to be considered include various parking lots, as well as the creation of a downtown plaza or festival area. "A successful market is more than just a place to buy tomatoes, but should strengthen community bonds, offer other things to do, and help stimulate nearby business," according to Chris Straight, Senior Planner at West Central Wisconsin Regional Planning.
On May 20th from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, a workshop will be conducted for those who want to "roll-up their sleeves" and dive into the details of the action plan. This Farmers' Market Action Plan Workshop will engaging everyone involved, including placemaking activities, analyzing site alternatives, evaluating market operations, and the creation of an action plan. Registration for May 20th is required by contacting the City of Loyal at 715-255-8733 or the Clark County Economic Development Corporation at 715-255-9100. There is no cost for attending and lunch will be provided.
This project is being funded by a technical assistance award obtained through a partnership between the City of Loyal, Clark County Economic Development Corporation and West Central Regional Planning Commission.
Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.