Explanation
The purpose of this ordinance is to authorize the City Clerk to enter into a grant agreement with Highland Youth Garden, Inc., a non-profit corporation, in support of sustainable produce production and its Free Garden Markets program. Funding can be provided on a reimbursement basis for purposes of this agreement.
Highland Youth Garden involves youth and children in the process of sustainably growing significant amounts of fresh produce and distributing it to community members on the Hilltop. In 2025, it was able to triple its production record without the addition of more acreage by capitalizing on the strong expertise of a Garden Manager who joined the staff in late 2024. Past production records were limited to 4,000 pounds a year, but it has grown and distributed 12,000 pounds as of October 2025. What is needed to continue expanding this production record is sufficient funding for expert staff. The method of distribution for this produce is targeted to its USDA-designated food desert neighborhood through thrice-weekly markets. Markets are an opportunity for neighbors (including many seniors) to come together, build community, exchange recipes and learn about how to use the fresh produce that Highland Youth Garden offers. Scheduling is built to best accommodate families whose children attend Highland Elementary and the city’s Hilltop Early Learning Center who appreciate the ability to pick up produce at the same time they are picking up their children from school. A Saturday market is also appreciated by neighborhood residents who work during the week as well as seniors. Access is available to everyone without paperwork or income restrictions, but zip codes are collected to ensure that at least 85% of attendees live on the Hilltop or in Franklinton.
Council is supporting this need for the program to last from January to November 2026.
FISCAL IMPACT: $12,020.00 is available within the Neighborhood Initiatives subfund for this purpose.
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