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Residents and volunteers propose survey research, farmers market and community events in Union Bridge
Summary
A resident proposed a town information-capture and survey project; Saint James Lutheran Church and Dream Big announced plans for a summer farmers market and spring/summer community events including a Rubber Duck Derby and carnival. Council discussed permits and parking for a mobile health unit on June 2.
Several community presenters used the March 24 meeting to offer volunteer projects and event proposals aimed at increasing services and activity in Union Bridge.
Resident Joe Connelly described a research project to document town procedures and gather resident and council feedback through surveys so officials and the public can find needed information faster. Connelly said his research would "anonymously capture all the information, write up a report summary, give it to you all as a council, and see if it's something you'd like for me to go ahead and work on... I'm willing to do the research. I'm willing to do the leg work. I'm willing to help put together grant proposals." Council members expressed support and suggested posting survey links on the town's 150th anniversary page and newsletter.
During public comment, Kim White and Dale (representing Saint James Lutheran Church and its food pantry) said Dream Big Union Bridge is partnering with the church to establish a farmers market along Main Street from early summer through November, and asked about necessary local permits and vendor insurance requirements. Kim read a written statement: "Dream Big is delighted to announce its partnership with members of Saint James Lutheran Church. Together, we are working to establish a farmer's market in town, which is anticipated to launch by early summer and continue through early November." Council advised checking town peddler-permit requirements (a town permit was described in the meeting) and county health-department rules for vendors selling prepared foods.
Kim also asked to reserve parking in front of the church on Monday, June 2, so a large mobile health unit could park to provide free screenings tied to the food pantry; council agreed to coordinate signage and logistics and asked maintenance staff to place no-parking signs early that day.
Separately, Dream Big reported on community events: a Rubber Duck Derby and Jeep show planned for June 7 on the Donald Wilson walking trail, an Easter egg hunt on April 12, and other vendor-driven activities; the organization said past events attracted more than 1,000 people and that the group expects strong turnout this year. The Union Bridge Fire Company also previewed its carnival May 29–31 and other fundraisers and said flood-zone boat-fundraisers have raised roughly $130,000 for local fire companies over five years.
Why it matters: the projects emphasize volunteer and nonprofit-led opportunities to boost local commerce, provide services (including health screenings) and drive civic engagement. Council encouraged organizers to confirm permits and coordinate with town staff and county health officials.
What’s next: organizers will follow up with the town on permits and logistics; council will post event information on town channels and support signage and parking coordination for the June 2 mobile health unit.
