Council approves $2,500 community grant for Mujeres Activas' harvest festival at community garden

The McFarland City Council voted to award a $2,500 community grant to Mujeres Activas LLC to support the group’s inaugural harvest festival at the McFarland Community Garden. Staff said Mujeres Activas is an active nonprofit in good standing and has helped revitalize the community garden; the grant will fund the festival’s pumpkin patch and related activities for children. Several council members praised the organization’s work keeping the garden clean and engaging the neighborhood; resident speakers in the meeting also commended the group. Action and vote: Council approved the grant by roll call (Mary Young—aye; Vice Mayor O'Connell—aye; Councilor Gonzalez—aye; Councilor Perez—aye; Councilor Gutierrez—aye). The event will be organized at the community garden, and staff will process the grant award per the community grants program requirements.