Tarpon Sunday Market Closes

According to the Tarpon Sunday Market's Facebook page, the weekly event is no more-- for now at least.

The news comes after city manager Mark LeCouris confirmed the termination of the former contract with market manager Laura Johnson.

Earlier this month, a Facebook status from market organizers read: 

"Tarpon Sunday Market will not be returning. The City has terminated the contract. I had a wonderful experience as being part of the market and thank everyone for their support."

When Patch reached out to Johnson, she said the termination was unexpected but that she hopes for a new market to take off soon.

"I hope they figure out ways to improve it an expand on it," Johnson said.

LeCouris said the plan is to find a Tarpon Springs nonprofit organization to take over the weekly event and start back up in October.

According to LeCouris, in order for the market to expand and offer special events, city ordinances require a nonprofit to spearhead the planning. 

He suggested experienced organizers like Johnson help out once there is a nonprofit on board.

"We really hope to have a market by October, but it has to be run by a Tarpon Springs nonprofit," LeCouris said.

If you are involved with or own a nonprofit in Tarpon Springs and are interested in learning more about the possibilities with the market, contact economic development manager Karen Lemmons at 727-938-3711, Ext. 2253 or klemmons@ctsfl.us.

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