February 20, 2024
Library and Community Services
DATE: February 20, 2024
TO: Mayor Martinez and Members of the City Council
FROM:
LaShonda White, Deputy City Manager
Subject:
Land Use Agreement for Weekly Farmers’ Market at
Marina Bay Park
FINANCIAL IMPACT: The City does not receive any revenue from the utilization of its property by the Richmond Certified
Farmers’ Market Association (RCFMA). Furthermore, the
City is not obligated to compensate the RCFMA for any
services provided under the Land Use Agreement.
PREVIOUS COUNCIL
ACTION:
N/A
STATEMENT OF THE
ISSUE:
City staff would like approval to execute a temporary
Land Use Agreement with the Richmond Certified
Farmers’ Market Association. This agreement aims to
permit the utilization of a designated portion of the city- owned parking lot near Marina Bay Park in Richmond,
CA, exclusively for the operation of a weekly farmers
market on Sundays.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
APPROVE a temporary Land Use Agreement between
the City of Richmond and the Richmond Certified
Farmers’ Market Association for the free use of a section of the City-owned parking lot located near the Marina Bay Park to host a weekly farmer’s market on Sundays,
effective March 17, 2024, and ending December 31,
2026, with two-one year extension options – Community
Services Department (LaShonda White 510-620-6828).
AGENDA
REPORT
February 20, 2024
DISCUSSION:
Since 1983, Richmond Certified Farmers’ Market Association (RCFMA) has successfully operated a Certified Farmers Market (hereinafter the “Market”) in Richmond, CA around Civic Center wherein farmers from around the Bay Area are provided an opportunity to sell their freshly grown produce and to sell various other related foodstuffs and crafts. Recognizing the community's demand for increased access to fresh, seasonal, and locally grown produce, the RCFMA aims to operate a new Market at Marina Bay Park in Richmond, CA.
The idea to establish a new farmers market was brought forward by then-Vice Mayor Gayle McLaughlin in 2023 (City Council Strategic Goals 3.2). This proposal was designated as a task for implementation by city staff in the next two to three years. Over the past six months, Councilmembers Gayle McLaughlin and Doria Robinson, RCFMA President Tom Cloman, Urban Tilth staff, and City Council Office and Parks and Community Services representatives have collaboratively worked to bring this concept to fruition. Councilmember McLaughlin also disseminated information to the Marina Bay Neighborhood Council and the Marina Bay Landscape and Lighting District.
The proposed Market at Marina Bay Park is planned to operate every Sunday from January to December (unless weather or other circumstances dictate otherwise).
Market activities are scheduled between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., with the area blocked off from parking to support set-up and clean-up from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Upon approval, the City and RCFMA will enter into a Land Use Agreement, effective from March 17, 2024, to December 31, 2026, with options for two one-year extensions.
The Agreement outlines the terms for the RCFMA's use of the property at no cost, and it clarifies that the City will not compensate the RCFMA for any services rendered. The RCFMA is obligated to adhere to all rules and regulations stipulated in the Agreement, utilizing the leased property in compliance with existing and amended laws. Importantly, the City is not obligated to provide a future site or renew the Agreement upon its expiration.
The Agreement outlines specific details such as hours of operation, minimum and maximum vendor numbers, operations and marketing plans, vendor performance criteria, site clean-up procedures, and City approval processes for non-certified vendors and signage. This comprehensive framework ensures the smooth and mutually beneficial operation of the Market at Marina Bay Park.
Benefits of Farmers’ Markets
Farmers’ Markets play a crucial role in communities, offering various benefits that contribute to the health and well-being of both individuals and the community as a whole. Farmers’ markets provide:
Local Economic Support: Farmers’ markets provide a platform for local farmers and small-scale producers to sell their products directly to consumers. This
February 20, 2024
direct-to-consumer model helps these producers earn a fair price for their goods, supporting their livelihoods and bolstering the local economy. Farmers’ markets provide a platform for small-scale entrepreneurs to test and showcase their products. This encourages innovation in food production, leading to the development of unique and high-quality offerings.
Access to Fresh, Healthy Food: Farmers markets offer a wide variety of fresh, seasonal, and locally grown produce. This enhances the accessibility of nutritious and diverse food options for community members, contributing to a healthier lifestyle.
Community Building: Farmers’ markets serve as communal gathering places where residents can interact with one another and with local producers. This sense of community fosters social connections, promotes a strong community identity, and encourages civic engagement.
Environmental Impact: By promoting local and sustainable agriculture, farmers markets help reduce the carbon footprint associated with transporting goods over long distances. This, in turn, contributes to environmental sustainability and reduces the overall impact of food production on the environment. Educational Opportunities: Farmers’ markets offer educational opportunities for both adults and children. Visitors can learn about different varieties of produce, the benefits of locally sourced foods, and sustainable farming practices directly from the farmers and producers.
Promotion of Cultural Diversity: Farmers’ markets often showcase a diverse range of products reflecting the cultural and culinary diversity of the community.
This exposure to different foods and traditions contributes to a rich cultural tapestry and fosters an appreciation for diversity.
Quality Assurance and Transparency: Consumers often have the opportunity to interact directly with producers at farmers’ markets, fostering a sense of trust and transparency in the food supply chain. This direct connection allows consumers to ask questions about farming practices, pesticide use, and other concerns, leading to increased confidence in the quality of the products.
Hosting a farmers’ market is a multifaceted strategy that positively impacts the economic, social, environmental, and health aspects of a community. As communities seek to build resilience and promote sustainability, the establishment and support of farmers’ markets emerge as valuable endeavors with far-reaching benefits for all stakeholders involved.
DOCUMENTS ATTACHED:
Attachment 1 – Attachment 1 – Land Use Agreement by and between the City of Richmond and the Richmond Certified Farmers’ Market Association