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<br /> January 5,2009
<br /> Orange County Board of County Commissioners
<br /> 200 South Cameron Street
<br /> Post Office Box 8181
<br /> Hillsborough, North Carolina 27278
<br /> Dear Commissioners,
<br /> Early in 2008 the BOCC was approached by competing groups asking to use the Public Market House for
<br /> a farmers market.The BOCC decided, rather than have winners or losers between the two groups,to
<br /> have the county"operate the Market on an interim basis"in a way that would allow anyone who wanted
<br /> use the facility to be able to do so.This decision was made with the intention that these stakeholders
<br /> using the market would ultimately govern the market as an independent organization.
<br /> The opportunity to use the Public Market House drew vendors from many corners, including members of
<br /> the Hillsborough Farmers Market(HFM), Farmers of Orange,farmers and artisans not affiliated with
<br /> either group,and citizen volunteers.All came together seeking a unified, vibrant market at the Public
<br /> Market House,and they have made the Orange County Farmers Market(OCFM)a reality.The number of
<br /> vendors may have been smaller than hoped,but those involved have worked diligently throughout the
<br /> 2008 season to ensure the farmers market at the Public Market House is viable,successful and open to
<br /> anyone.Their work has resulted in expanded community awareness of this great public facility,a growing
<br /> customer base, and a solid beginning for effective market operations and governance.
<br /> We have participated with this group as they created by-laws,market rules,fees,and operational
<br /> procedures,and believe they well represent the best interests of not only the market,but also of the
<br /> Hillsborough and greater Orange County community.Copies of their adopted market rules,fee schedule,
<br /> inspection form,application form,and by-laws are attached.The group is currently in the process of
<br /> incorporation under their new name, Eno River Farmers Market.
<br /> Based on the work of these dedicated vendors and citizens,the OCFM Oversight Committee
<br /> recommends without reservation,to approve contracting use of the Public Market House for a
<br /> farmers market by the Eno River Farmers Market,a group representing the vendors and
<br /> customers currently using the facility.
<br /> We would also ask you to consider:
<br /> • support for this community farmers market,to include a)waiving any facility use fees; b)transitional
<br /> financial support for a market manager in this transition year[$5,000 in 2009];and c)designation of a
<br /> county staff person as the primary contact between the market organization and the county.
<br /> • extension of the appointments of the oversight committee through July 1,2009,to serve as a liaison
<br /> between the county,community,and market organization;
<br /> Please know that In addition to higher vendor fees they have voted themselves,and county support,the
<br /> Eno River Farmers Market will seek continued support from Hillsborough Tourist Board grants,other
<br /> grants,and corporate sponsorships.
<br /> Farmers and artisans are making their plans for next year, and there is much work to be done to build the
<br /> farmers market for 2009,as well as recruit new vendors,farmers,and customers.Your prompt attention
<br /> to our request is important to continue the momentum of this group's work,to ensure the vitality of an
<br /> inclusive, sustainable, and community oriented farmers market at the Public Market House.
<br /> Sincerely,
<br /> OCFM Community Oversight Committee
<br /> Tom Stevens, Barbara Marotto, Holly Reid, Eric Hallman
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