Concession Street BIA plowing ahead with farmers' market

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BIA plowing ahead with farmers' market

Now all they need are some more farmers

Mark Newman Jun 06, 2008 Mountain News

A farmer's market serving the Concession Street area could be a reality by month's end if two or three more local growers would agree to come on board.

"We need at least a couple more," said Paul Wharton, chair of the Concession Street Business Improvement Area.

Mr. Wharton said the BIA is teaming up with Sacred Heart Church to bring a farmers' market to the church parking lot on Viewpoint Avenue.

"We're looking at one day a week, probably Saturday," Mr. Wharton said.

Mr. Wharton is asking any growers from southern Ontario who are interested in taking part in the market to call BIA executive director Lorne Lozinski at 905-745-9497.

"I'm very confident this is going to happen," said Mr. Wharton, who feels a farmers' market will complement the existing businesses on Concession street. "I think there's a huge demand for it."

Mr. Wharton stressed the BIA is looking for growers, not resellers. He figures some growers are holding off on coming forward until they see if any other farmers agree to take part.

Chuck Emberson, a parishioner at Sacred Heart, has been acting as the liaison between the church and BIA on the farmers' market plan.

He said church officials have given their blessing to pursuing the farmers' market proposal and while their final approval is still required once all of the details are worked out, he doesn't foresee any problems.

Mr. Emberson said the farmers' market will give the church a chance to raise its profile in the community and do some fundraising.

The expected $4 to $10 per day stall fees will go to the church.