GOP CLAIMS FARMER’S MARKETS DON’T MAKE MONEY?
BALWIERCZAK & SEVER DISAGREE, DEL RUSSO & DECICCO HAVE NOTHING TO SAY!
HERE ARE THE FACTS!
NORTH ARLINGTON – The flip-flopping ways of the Republican Party continue as they first trashed the idea of a seasonal farmer’s market, calling it a “fruit stand,” now claiming they would sight something on River Road, to now claiming farmer’s markets are a financial loser.
But do farmer’s markets make an income and are they financially successful?
The management of such a process is critical to any bottom-line, but to claim such a proposition cannot make or earn dollars for the community just isn’t true.
Yes, municipally sponsored farmers’ markets can and often do earn income, even if they are not run with the primary goal of turning a profit.
🔹 How Municipally Sponsored Markets Earn Income:
Municipalities typically sponsor markets through departments like parks and recreation, economic development, or public health. Even if the market is subsidized or operated as a public service, they can generate revenue through several channels:
1. Vendor Fees:
Stall or booth rental fees (daily, weekly, seasonal)
Premium fees for electricity, water access, or high-traffic spots
Application or registration fees
2. Sponsorships & Partnerships:
Local businesses may sponsor the market in exchange for promotion
Health organizations or nonprofits may provide funding for outreach or food assistance programs
3. Merchandise Sales:
Branded tote bags, T-shirts, reusable containers, etc.
4. Special Events or Classes:
Cooking demonstrations, farm-to-table dinners, festivals, or kids’ activities
Entry fees or participation fees for workshops
5. Grants:
State and federal grants (e.g. USDA, Farmers Market Promotion Program)
Local foundation or public health grants
6. Food Assistance Program Administration:
Handling programs like SNAP, WIC, or senior vouchers can sometimes include small administrative fees or reimbursements for managing EBT systems
🧠 Bottom Line:
Yes, municipally sponsored farmers’ markets can earn income, but they are usually designed to support community goals, not maximize profits.
Any income is typically reinvested to improve the market or expand its reach.
Democrats support the concept to not just earn dollars, but to bring forth improved community closeness and spirited activity for all residents which keeps dollars in North Arlington.
Why would Del Russo and DeCicco be against such a proposal?
Are they waiting for Pronti to tell
them how to vote and what to do?