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Fletcher council weighs locations, logistics for proposed farmers market
Summary
Council discussed plans for a Tuesday farmers market (3–6 p.m., May–October) and debated two locations—the south Town Hall parking/gravel area or the back parking at Belmore/Billmore community park—raising concerns about traffic, vendor space, gravel costs and uncertain sales-tax revenue heading into next budget year.
Council members and staff discussed early planning steps for a proposed Fletcher farmers market, focusing on schedule, location and logistics rather than a final decision.
Staff recommended Tuesdays from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. running May through October and presented two location options: the south Town Hall parking area (gravel portion) or the rear parking area at the community park. Staff and council highlighted trade-offs: the gravel area might require closing a travel lane or paying to install gravel; the park’s rear lot would minimize interference with town operations but could be tight when community sports and trail users are present.
Council weighed vendor logistics (vendors may need one or two parking spaces each) and heard an informal estimate that initial vendor participation could be low ("about 10") though interest appeared strong from pre-event contacts. Members asked staff to return with a logistics proposal that compares the park and Green Building/parking options and includes potential costs, traffic-control plans and recommended vendor spacing.
Participants also discussed the town’s uncertain revenue outlook: staff said sales-tax receipts are projecting declines next year and the town may need to be cautious about investing in site improvements such as gravel. No formal vote or funding decision was taken; staff were instructed to develop a proposal for a future council discussion.
