Title
Urban Farm Park Feasibility Study Briefing and Discussion
Recommended Action
To receive a briefing on the Urban Farm Park Feasibility Study
Report
Issue:
Whether to receive a briefing on the Urban Farm Park Feasibility Study
Staff Contact:
Sylvana Niehuser, Director of Parks Planning & Maintenance, 360.753.8068
Presenter(s):
Sylvana Niehuser, Director of Parks Planning & Maintenance, 360.753.8068
Background and Analysis:
The accessibility of local food has long been important to the Olympia community (as evidenced by the creation of the Olympia Farmers' Market). In the City's Comprehensive Plan, several goals and policies reflect the community's values regarding agriculture. These goals and policies have guided the work of the Olympia Farmland Work Group. The idea for an Olympia Urban Farm Park emerged from recommendations to preserve local farmland by the Olympia Farmland Work Group in 2021 and the Land Use and Environment Committee of the Olympia City Council.
In September of 2023 I briefed PRAC on the Urban Farm Park Feasibility Study project and the public feedback received to date. I presented an overview of the process and next steps.
This presentation is to bring forward a draft of the feasibility report and receive feedback from PRAC before presenting the draft to Council at their study session on March 26th.
Comprehensive Plan or Parks, Arts & Recreation Plan Connection:
Land Use Chapter
GL25 Local Thurston County food production is encouraged and supported to increase self-sufficiency, reduce environmental impact, promote health, and the humane treatment of animals, and support the local economy.
PL25.3 Collaborate with community partners to ensure that everyone within Olympia is within biking or walking distance of a place to grow food.
PL25.4 Encourage for-profit gardening and farming in the community.
PL25.8 Work with community organizations to develop strategies, measure, and set goals for increasing local food production.
PL...
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