FairBuck Fridays

All the businesses involved in have been given an opportunity to create FairBuck specials for customers. And today, Oct. 21, is the first batch of specials -- full of discounts for those trading in Fairfax's unique coin. More businesses will follow suit on following Fridays. Look for the sign at the Parkade each Friday for new specials.

Starting this Friday here are the specials being offered when you pay in FairBucks:

: Local draft beer is 1 FairBuck

: $10 Fairfax Bag only $7 when you pay with a FairBuck

: 1 slice of Triangle Pizza is 1 FairBuck, or 1 Non-GMO Recycled Cotton grocery bag is 1 FairBuck

: Large green soup 1 FairBuck

: 10% off entire store when you pay with FairBuck

: 2 succulents is 1 FairBuck

: Double Scoop is 1 FairBuck

: Vial of wildflower seeds is 1 FairBuck

: Draft Beer is 1 FairBuck

: Anything ROUND 15% off when you pay with a FairBuck

*Each of the businesses will have signs clarifying any restrictions to their deal.

Looking for FairBucks?

Most have some on hand, just ask if you can purchase. Good Earth recently restocked their drawers. 

The FairBuck Project began in 2011 as a collaborative effort by , the Town of Fairfax and to launch and utilize a three dollar trade token to promote a more vibrant local economy. In June of 2011, 5,000 tokens were minted and had a very successful launch during the . With 30 businesses participating; almost 4,000 tokens were put into circulation in one week, mostly through exchanges with individuals.

Since the launch, individuals are spending bucks, asking for the FairBuck in change, using it for tooth fairy money, as birthday gifts, and to pay allowance. Some residents are even purchasing from one business so they can spend them at others. Most participating businesses are finding the flow in and out to be well matched. Ray Martin, owner of the Fairfax Scoop, has been cashing them out himself for local shopping.

There is over $12,000 worth of FairBucks circulating around town, keeping Fairfax money local. The reserve account at First Federal Saving and Loan is holding the $12,000+ in US dollars, providing the option for businesses to exchange surpluses back if necessary. After the initial year, the group will determine a reasonable reserve level and hopefully use the funds raised to mint another batch of tokens for spring 2012 and for local community projects.

The FairBuck provides an opportunity for residents and visitors to invest in Fairfax. The FairBuck is accepted as change and can be spent at over 40 participating businesses in Fairfax. FairBuck tokens that are kept as souvenirs allow the organizing groups to spend US dollars raised on local community projects. 

Participation is completely voluntary for businesses and shoppers. For more information go to www.fairbuck.org. To get involved, please email fairbuck@gmail.com.