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Town backs application for farmers market pavilion; council to consider match after cost report
Summary
IDA presented a plan to pursue a Tobacco Commission grant and other funding for a farmers market pavilion in the North Tazewell warehouse district; council was asked to consider matching funds once Thompson & Litton’s itemized cost report arrives.
The town’s IDA and planners told council on Feb. 11 they plan to apply for multiple grants to build a farmers market pavilion that would anchor North Tazewell revitalization efforts.
IDA chair Miss Piper said the town has designated $50,000 for a preliminary architecture report from Thompson & Litton; that report is due Feb. 18 and will include itemized phase estimates. Based on preliminary planning, the IDA plans to apply to the Tobacco Commission for $50,000; the commission requires a 1:1 cash match and permits up to 25% of the match to be in‑kind. Staff estimated a required municipal match of about $37,500 for a $50,000 Tobacco Commission award, although exact match obligations will be set after receipt of the architecture report.
Council and staff discussed phasing the project so an initial phase would place structure over the existing slab with future phases adding restrooms or a prep kitchen. The IDA also plans to submit a T‑Mobile $50,000 grant (no match) and pursue USDA and other funding for later phases. Staff emphasized grant timing and that council approval of a match dollar amount would come after Thompson & Litton provides the final estimates.
Council supported continuing the grant strategy and asked staff to circulate the architecture report and a proposed match figure via email for a possible interim vote or conditional approval so grant deadlines can be met.
Sources: IDA presentation and council discussion at the Feb. 11 meeting.
