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Residents and organizers spar over Stony Creek Farmers Market handwashing, parking and jurisdiction
Summary
Public commenters raised concerns about handwashing stations, vehicle access and crowd size at the Stony Creek Farmers Market; market organizer said police approved coned loading zones and the handwashing stations were installed per the health department. The board reiterated permit rules and suggested consulting the East Shore District Health Department on station placement.
Public comments at the Branford Board of Recreation meeting on June 10 focused on safety and regulatory questions at the Stony Creek Farmers Market.
Linda Reed, a Branford resident, asked how the market is approved and regulated and said two independent handwashing stations at Bayview Park “do not belong to BPRSS.” Reed alleged the market “brings in over 3,000 people” and reported that vehicles had driven into the park to load vendors, asking what the protocol is when rules are not followed.
Clara Pagliaro, director and founder of the Stony Creek Market, said she obtained permission from the Branford Police Department to cone off a few parking spaces for unloading and loading and said the market installed two independent handwashing stations per health department guidance. Dan Bullard, president of the Stony Creek Association, cited a state statute about what defines a farmer’s market and urged that Planning & Zoning be involved in determining jurisdiction.
Board Chairman Paul Criscuolo and member Jeanne Crowley said they had visited the market and observed families and children attending. The board reminded permit holders that “under no circumstances should vehicles be allowed to drive in the park,” suggested moving one of the handwashing stations, and noted that any relocation would require consultation with the East Shore District Health Department. No additional enforcement action was taken at the meeting; the motions from the May 13 meeting remain in effect.
The discussion raised two specific follow-up items: whether the market’s handwashing stations comply with local health-location requirements and whether Planning & Zoning has a role in defining the market’s jurisdiction. The board did not schedule a vote or policy change; staff indicated they will continue to engage with organizers and the health department.
