INNISFAIL – With farmers markets continuing to be a popular attraction across Alberta the town wants to ensure there is still room for their own to find more growth, prosperity and ways to deal with challenges.
Stuart Fullarton, the town's economic development officer, recently met with representatives from the Innisfail Farmers Market, the Sundance Producer’s Market and the province of Alberta.
Fullarton said the meetings were a chance to follow up with the town’s markets and discuss any challenges or possible opportunities.
“It was a discussion that took place. We got together twice (this fall),” said Fullarton. “We went into those discussions with no plans, no agenda and no set sort of outcome,” he added. “They were very exploratory, to touch base with our respective markets.”
He said there may be a potential opportunity for the town to partner with (one or both of) the markets in the future and noted their positive contributions.
“Events like that are great for the community,” said Fullarton. “We’re fortunate to have two really great markets in (town).”
Eileen Kotowich, a farmers market specialist with the province, was in attendance at one of the meetings. Although she could not be reached for comment, Fullarton did note her input in the discussions.
“She brought some good comments with regards to what she’s seen in communities of similar size to Innisfail and what some of the opportunities might be or some of the similar challenges and barriers,” explained Fullarton. “We appreciated her insight.”
Ira Bowes, the manager of the Innisfail Farmers Market, has confirmed he is stepping down and will not be running the local market at the Innisfail Arena next summer.
There is no confirmation on his replacement at this time.
Shirley Lentz, manager of the Sundance Producer's Market, was also a part of the recent meetings and said there was discussion of the possibility of a town market and partnership opportunities.
“We’re looking at all the avenues and checking all the other markets (across the province),” said Lentz. “Whether that would actually happen or not (is unknown). There’s nothing in stone yet.”
Lentz said she is open to the idea of a town market if the idea comes to fruition.
“I’d love to join it,” she said. “We’re waiting to see what the town is willing to do or what they’re going to put into it.
“I know they were looking at doing it. They’re the ones that initiated the conversation,” said Lentz. “Our question was, what is the town prepared to put into it and what’s their role going to be before we move forward with anything?”
No dates have been set for future meetings.
