Parks District Approves Farmers Market

The announcement came Wednesday night when the Fair Oaks Recreation and Park District Board approved measures that would ensure a .

The Wednesday market is scheduled to begin as early as the end of June with hours set to go from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., said FOVEC member and Merchants Association co-creator Daneece Fraizer. However, appropriations may be made due to uncertain weather patterns which could push the start date back. 

The approval came with its share of considerations, including maintenance of park lawns. District members shared some concerns about increased foot traffic in the park during market hours.

District director Ralph Carhart explained if the increased foot traffic did become an issue the market could be moved onto California Street. The issue could become more pronounced should the weather continue to stay wet, as it could create muddy patches on the lawn.

The merchants association will work with the market to promote business in The Village, Fraizer said, and will feature foods, cheeses, produce, breads and drink vendors.

“We’re just happy that it’s here and coming to The Village,” said Fair Oaks Village Enhancement Committee chair Greg Vincent.

The Local nonprofit BeMoneySmartUSA has been working with the merchants association as well as the the  to bring a Wednesday farmers market to Plaza Park in Fair Oaks Village since early 2012.

BeMoneySmartUSA organizes weekend farmers markets behind Sunrise Mall and in Carmichael Park. Teens are paid to set up the markets and help give samples, but not before they show up on a Saturday morning for a five-hour class on financial and career advice, turn in a resume and interview for the job. The same will be true for The Village farmers market.