Title
Local Food System Action Plan - Key Project Updates and Discussion (B)
Explanation
On 12/3/2020 the City Commission approved a motion to host and participate in a workshop held on January 12, 2021, to hear staff present and update on the Local Food System Action Plan, and to engage in a discussion with staff around the next steps. The topics discussed in this workshop centered around possible projects that the City Commission may consider investing in to improve our local food system, and recommendations and feedback shared with staff by city neighbors over the past two years. The workshop presentation was also informed by the motion passed at the Joint City/County Commission meeting on 12/15/2020 when item #200604 “Collaborative Community Food Projects” was presented by City Commissioner Johnson and County Commissioner Prizzia.
The discussion around the Local Food System Action Plan and potential projects continued at the 2/25/2021 General Policy Committee meeting, at which time a motion passed detailing direction for staff to work on a Community Grocery Store Initiative. This initiative, as well as others passed in the 12/15/2020 Joint City/County motion and continued to be discussed on 3/29/2021, at a subsequent Joint City/County meeting. During the 3/29/2021 Joint City/County meeting, a motion was passed that called for the formation of a Joint City/County Local Food System Policy Board to focus on collaborative community food projects. An interlocal agreement between the City and County to establish this Joint Board was passed by both parties with the chair seated with the County. The Joint Board has met monthly since August 2021, and city staff continues to participate in developing plans for the next steps on collaborative community food projects.
In addition, City staff continue to work internally on food access-related projects specific to the City of Gainesville.
The presentation included in this agenda item aims to provide the City Commission with an update on existing food access projects led by staff, as well as foster discussion amongst the City Commission regarding next steps for existing and prospective food access projects.
Strategic Connection Note
This item is connected to Goal 1: Equitable Community and is a high priority.
Fiscal Note
No fiscal impact at this time.
Recommendation
The City Commission will hear a presentation by staff that includes an update on existing food access projects led by staff and engage in discussion regarding the next steps for the City to take on existing and prospective food access projects.