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1 <br /> ORANGE COUNTY <br /> BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS <br /> ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT <br /> Meeting Date: June 15, 2021 <br /> Action Agenda <br /> Item No. 8-q <br /> SUBJECT: Resolution Supporting a United States Department of Agriculture - Regional <br /> Food Systems Partnership Planning Grant Application by Triangle J Council of <br /> Governments <br /> DEPARTMENT: Economic Development <br /> ATTACHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT: <br /> Commissioner Sally Green, 919-245- <br /> Resolution 2130 <br /> Mike Ortosky, 919-270-6528 <br /> PURPOSE: To approve a resolution supporting a United States Department of Agriculture - <br /> Regional Food Systems Planning grant, applied for by the Triangle J Council of Governments. <br /> BACKGROUND: Interest in, and demand for, more local food sources has increased in recent <br /> years as the desire for fresh, healthy food for all, thriving local farms and food businesses, and a <br /> resilient food system continues to grow. The recent COVID pandemic illuminated challenges in <br /> the industrial food system regarding supply chain interruption, economic resilience, agriculture <br /> and food systems worker health and safety, and equitable access to food. This increased <br /> awareness and concern for resilience in the food system creates opportunity for economic and <br /> community development in all areas of the regional food system. <br /> While many separate efforts exist to address various individual aspects of these challenges, there <br /> is need for a more comprehensive dialogue in the region among food system practitioners and <br /> consumers in order to inform policy, funding, advocacy and support, and entrepreneurship. <br /> Many food system issues are inherently regional in nature and require inclusive dialogue, <br /> innovation, and planning. One opportunity to advance growth and positive relationships in this <br /> area is through a regional partnership of practitioners and consumers. Triangle J Council of <br /> Governments is leading an effort to apply for a United States Department of Agriculture — Ag <br /> Marketing Service - Regional Food System Partnership Grant in support of economic and <br /> community development in the region. <br /> A resolution supporting this planning grant application and the overall values it represents is <br /> attached for Board consideration. <br />