A formal user agreement is in the future for the Aberfoyle Farmers Market.
On Nov. 16, Puslinch councillors reviewed correspondence from Matthew Bulmer, president of the Aberfoyle Market Association.
“As a new volunteer group, we were very pleased to see that our efforts were appreciated by so many of our visitors.”
Bulmer is also pleased the market was able to create opportunities for several township and county farms and producers to get their first market experience.
He noted that in helping to fulfill the vision of the Optimist Recreation Centre as a multi use facility, a number of spaces were provided to community groups and local amateur musicians free of charge.
“Our hope is that these groups benefited from this opportunity and will return next year.”
Now, the goal is sustainability so more people can benefit over the long term, he said.
“One of the key components of creating a long-term plan is to clarify our operating costs.”
He asked the township to consider the possibility of establishing a multi-year agreement that could address issues that may have arisen this year and establish an appropriate rate for the coming seasons.
Councillor Wayne Stokley said Bulmer had appeared before the recreation commission the night before to talk about the future of the market.
“I think all of us on the commission were very pleased with the way the market went.”
Stokley added Bulmer did a fantastic job.
“This is something that we would like to maintain, as it becomes a focal point for the township.” In some ways, he considered the market a social focus as well.
Stokley believes Bulmer and the market are also seeking stability on costs to maintain the market.
Mayor Dennis Lever said he had been to the market a number of times over the summer and enjoyed it.
“It’s very much a social event as well as a great place to buy fresh produce.”
Lever, too, believes there should be some type of multi-year agreement to provide the market with some stability – and to ensure the best use of the facility.
