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Commissioners approve Kaufman County Farmers Market, community garden at Historic Poor Farm
Summary
Court approved an interlocal agreement to host a biweekly farmers market and community garden program at the Historic Poor Farm with nonprofit partner HOPE and others; organizers said grant funds are currently on hold but some participants have already begun crops.
Kaufman County commissioners on Feb. 11 approved an interlocal agreement to host a biweekly Kaufman County Farmers Market and to launch a community‑driven garden and sustainability program at the Historic Poor Farm.
County staffer Pam requested court approval, saying the initiative will be a collaboration among Kaufman County, the Kaufman County Historical Commission, Hope for Small Farm Stability (HOPE), the Farmers Market organizers, and Resource Connection. “We are seeking approval to host the Kaufman County Farmers Market and launch a community garden program at the Historic Poor Farm,” Pam said.
HOPE representative Ashley described the market’s history and plans: the downtown market has operated for six or seven years and “we could fit over a hundred vendors. If we have that many, we've already had over 40 fill out the interest form.” She said HOPE will provide sustainable‑farming education, 20‑by‑20 plots for participants, tools, seeds and ongoing mentorship. Ashley said site A was the grant‑funded location but that the grant funds are on hold; site B would proceed using other HOPE funds and 11 people had already begun starting seeds.
Organizers told commissioners the program will include monthly workshops on organic farming and garden design, opportunities to engage students and senior citizens, and potential partnerships with WIC, food stamps and local food banks. When asked whether plot growers could sell their produce, Ashley said growers could “sell it, you can feed your family with it, you can donate it.”
County staff and master gardeners discussed water access and irrigation; staff said water has been moved to the area for master gardeners and that drip‑line irrigation is planned. Organizers also said they have reviewed vendor information with the county’s insurance provider and included vendor disclaimers to limit county liability.
Why it matters: The project aims to preserve the Historic Poor Farm’s legacy while expanding access to local food production and agricultural education across the county. Organizers and the historical commission expect the program to strengthen local collaboration and to boost attendance at the site’s events — organizers said prior homestead days drew about 500 attendees each.
Vote and next steps: Commissioner Moore moved to approve the interlocal agreement; Commissioner Crow seconded. The court voted to approve the agreement. Staff and HOPE will proceed with initial plots at the site and continue outreach to vendors and community partners.
Ending: Organizers asked staff to coordinate with the Kaufman County Historical Commission on preservation requirements and to return to court with operational details if needed.
