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Bristol council to pay half of community garden water bill through September
Summary
The Bristol Town Council voted unanimously July 17 to cover 50% of the Bristol Community Garden’s water bill for the May–September season after a presentation by Parkboard president Michael Rob and discussion of estimated seasonal costs.
Michael Rob, introduced as park board president and coordinator of the Bristol Community Garden, told the council the garden has supplied produce to the local pantry since 2021 and grew roughly 1,000 pounds for the community last year. “The primary purpose of our gardens [is] providing vegetables to the pantry,” Rob said, describing partnerships with Seed to Feed Elcart and the town’s park board.
Rob asked the council to consider sharing half the garden’s water bill for the current season; he said the operation expects peak weekly harvests of about 120 pounds once summer crops mature. Council members discussed prior arrangements and budget options, with staff and members estimating the season’s water cost at roughly $2,000. One councilmember suggested capping the town’s share at $1,000.
Kathy Burke moved that the town pay 50% of the community garden water bill for May through September; Greg Tolski seconded the motion. The motion carried unanimously.
Council members and Rob agreed staff will follow up on the precise billing amounts and administration of the payment. Rob thanked the council for its support and reminded residents the garden harvest and volunteer workdays take place weekly.
