Agenda - 01-22-2009 - 6b - Laserfiche WebLink

Browse Search

2 an organizational and operational structure to sustain the market (working in collaboration with the Oversight Committee). The group has developed market rules, fee schedules, inspection process and form, an application form, and by-laws. The group is pursuing incorporation as the "Eno River Farmers Market". The Oversight Committee believes the group is now ready to take the reigns of governance for a farmers' market, and recommends the BOCC: • Contract for continued use of the Public Market House for a farmers' market by the group now using the facility (incorporated as the Eno River Farmers Market); and • Extend of the appointments of the Oversight Committee through July 1, 2009, to serve as a liaison between the county, community, and market organization; • Authorize County support for this community farmers' market, to include 1) waiving any facility use fees for the initial term of the contract 2) partial financial support for a market manager in the 2009 transition year [$5,000]; and 3) designation of a County staff person as the primary contact between the market organization and the County (Dr. Fletcher Barber, Jr.) As suggested by County staff, an initial contract would be for a term of 3 years, renewable for an additional 2 years if approved by the County Manager. While some County support is requested, it is a reduction from 2008 and the group intends to pursue funding from other sources as well (including the Hillsborough Tourist Board and corporate sponsors), and has voted to assess itself both annual dues as well as weekly stall fees. FINANCIAL IMPACT: Under the provisions noted above, the County would 1) Waive any rent for the first term (three years), and 2) agree to appropriate $5,000 during calendar year 2009 to cover the costs associated with a part-time Market Manager. RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends the Board approve the transition of the Orange County Farmers' Market at the Public Market House to an independent organization as recommended by the Orange County Farmers' Market at the Public Market House Interim Oversight Committee; and that the Board of County Commissioners direct the Manager to develop a contract between Orange County and the Eno River Farmers' Market, Inc. for the operation of the market, with Eno River Farmers' Market, Inc. being required to provide $1 million of liability insurance for the County.