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County approves community garden lease with Pendleton, cites $15,000 in initial grant funding
Summary
Umatilla County approved staff moving forward with a City of Pendleton lease to create a community garden funded in part by an existing $15,000 grant and additional grant applications supported by Umatilla County Master Gardeners.
Public Health Director Joe P. Mara and Healthy Communities Coordinator Analia Cruz asked the board to authorize a lease with the City of Pendleton to develop a community garden on city property. Cruz said the county has secured a DNCO shared grant for initial build‑out and that Umatilla County Master Gardeners are prepared to apply for additional grants on the county's behalf.
Cruz said grant funds of $15,000 have already been secured for initial construction of raised beds, fencing and accessibility features. Commissioners asked about maintenance responsibilities, the lease's clause concerning frost‑free spigots (the city will install five at its expense but the tenant is responsible for three estimated at about $100 each) and whether the city would assume long‑term maintenance if needed; staff said the city has not committed to long‑term maintenance but that the project includes fencing and other measures to reduce vandalism and waste.
Commissioners expressed support for the county‑led garden and emphasized collaboration with local volunteers and youth groups. The board approved staff proceeding with the lease by voice vote.
