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Farmers market at The Cove deferred after business owners raise parking and revenue concerns
Summary
A proposed weekly farmers market at The Cove triggered strong opposition from existing Cove businesses over lost Saturday parking, restroom use and modest city rent; after competing testimony the commission deferred the permit and parking-lot license for staff negotiation and additional study, returning Aug. 18.
The commission considered a request by Salt and Soil Farmers Market (applicant Tita Dominguez) to host a weekly farmers market on the northwest parking area of The Cove Plaza from October 2026 through May 2027. Dominguez argued the market would increase foot traffic and said she had off-site parking and shuttle plans for vendors. She also said marketing revenue would be shared to promote Cove businesses.
Several Cove business owners said the market previously reduced their Saturday income, monopolized parking and restroom facilities and produced little spillover customer spending. One business owner presented an estimate showing the market operator proposed $500 per month rent to the city while projecting vendor revenue that appeared much larger; opponents called the rent inadequate. Concerns also included a legal reverter clause in the original deed and upcoming parking demand from the opening of the MODS museum nearby. After hearing proponents and opponents, the commission voted to defer the item to the Aug. 18 meeting and asked staff to negotiate terms, examine alternate locations, quantify cleanup/traffic costs, and report back with recommendations.
