Mayor Mominey introduces Toledo's $15K urban agriculture micro grant program

In a recent meeting of the Toledo Finance, Debt & Budget Oversight Committee, Mayor Mara Mominey presented an innovative micro grant program aimed at bolstering urban agriculture in Toledo. This initiative, which seeks to address food insecurity and promote local food systems, is set to receive $15,000 from the city, with the Lucas County Land Bank matching the funds.

Mayor Mominey, who was appointed as the city's food policy manager just a few months ago, emphasized the importance of urban agriculture as a viable solution to the challenges faced by many neighborhoods in accessing healthy food. During her presentation, she highlighted the findings from her early listening tour, which included interviews with over 60 stakeholders in the local food system. A significant barrier identified was the lack of affordable and secure land for farming, compounded by issues such as blighted areas and absentee landlords.

The proposed micro grant program aims to provide financial support to small-scale farmers and food distributors, offering grants ranging from $1,500 to $3,000. These funds could be used for essential needs such as soil testing, purchasing equipment, and setting up irrigation systems. Mayor Mominey noted that many urban growers also face challenges related to high utility costs and limited access to processing and storage facilities, which can hinder their ability to distribute fresh produce effectively.

The program's goals include transforming underutilized land into productive food spaces, increasing access to fresh produce in food-insecure neighborhoods, and empowering local residents and organizations to manage these spaces. The total budget for the initiative is projected at $30,000, with eligibility open to a wide range of applicants, including community groups, for-profit and nonprofit entities, and individual farmers.

As Toledo continues to explore solutions to enhance its local food system, this micro grant program represents a significant step towards fostering urban agriculture and improving food access for its residents. The committee's support for this initiative could lead to a more sustainable and resilient food network in the city, addressing both immediate needs and long-term community empowerment.