The Seattle Farmers Market Association Needs your Help: There is a proposal to increase farmers market permit fees by 132% for 2015. This could affect many farmers ability to continue to offer their goods at Seattle farmers market locations.
In addition to requesting citizens to make public comments on this proposed fee increase, the SFMA would appreciate community members to join them at one of three public meetings happening over the next few weeks. The one nearest to our ‘hood will be:
Thursday, November 13th
9:00 – 10:30 am
Phinney Center, room 6, blue building*
6532 Phinney Ave N
Seattle, WA 98103
Map: https://goo.gl/maps/MZLxV
*this room is accessible by elevator
All public comments need to be made by December 10, 2014.
With farmers being required to make separate applications plus pay separate permits for each market at which they sell, the cost for independent and small farmers to participate is expensive. With the cost going up about 300% from 2011 rates, there is a concern that many small farms and food processors will stop participating in King County farmers markets.
The SFMA reports that there has never been a documented food-borne illness out-break from a King County farmers market. Additionally, the Health Department has even reported a decrease in violations found at these markets. So why is this rate increase on the table? In the past, the County has been supportive of farmers markets and this hike in permit fees seems to be contrary to that support.
To get a better understanding of what’s going on, how it will affect your farmers market, voice your concerns or to be apart of the discussion, Join SFMA at one of three public hearings on Nov. 13th & 19th to express your concerns.
For more information and a full list of meeting locations and times, check out the Ballard farmers market Blog.
