TOWN OF GRANBY
AGRICULTURE COMMISSION MEETING
MINUTES FEBRUARY 12, 2009
PRESENT: Stanley Hayes, Chairman; Stephen Hayes, Michelle Neidermeyer, Ann Wilhelm, Jason Bogli, and Don Butler.
OTHER PRESENT: Lisa Dinsmore, Jim LoFink, Holcomb Farm Executive Director
Chairman Hayes confirmed a quorum and called the meeting to order at 7:02 p.m.
REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES
On a MOTION by Jason Bogli, seconded by Stephen Hayes, the Commission voted (4-0-2) to approve the minutes of May 8, 2008 as presented. Ms. Neidermeyer and Mr. Butler abstained.
HEAR BUSINESS PLAN FROM LISA DINSMORE ABOUT FUTURE LOCAL PRODUCTS/FEED STORE
Ms. Dinsmore introduced herself. She and her husband, Roger, recently purchased a farm and they own 10 horses. She is interested in opening a co-op feed grain, farm produce, and crafts items. The Board liked her idea, commented on their experiences they had for going into business, and offered her some additional ideas of what she will need to look into to get this co-op store open. Fran Armentano, Director of Community Development, would be a resource to discuss this idea and find out what permits, paperwork may be needed to make this particular store operational.
Chairman Hayes reordered the agenda to place “Any other business to come before meeting” for the convenience of their guest speaker.
ANY OTHER BUSINESS TO COME BEFORE MEETING
Jim LoFink, Holcomb Farm Executive Director, introduced himself and gave a little overview of the Holcomb Farm activities.
He indicated the Holcomb Farm, for the next couple of months, is reviewing their business plans, different ways to use land at the farm, and welcomes suggestions by this Commission. He also indicated the farm is encouraging more community interaction, by making space available for community use and passive sports, etc.
EXPLORE AGENDA OF AGRICULTURAL COMMISSION FOR UPCOMING YEAR
The Commission discussed future agenda items. Some of the agenda items are:
- Review and edit the past survey, explore how the survey should be distributed, etc. Mr. Bogli, Mr. Butler, and Ms. Neidermeyer will take the lead on this idea.
- Identify parcels that may be good for farming and create a draft document on procedures to participate in farming identified parcels, if available. Mr. Stanley Hayes and Mr. Stephen Hayes will take the lead on this idea.
- Research the marketing outreach concept idea of a passport participation book with local farmers and hold an Open Farmer’s Day or Weekend event. Ms. Neidermeyer and Ms. Wilhelm will take the lead on this idea.
ADJOURNMENT
On a MOTION by Stephen Hayes, seconded by Michelle Neidermeyer, the committee voted unanimously (5-0-0) to adjourn the meeting at 8:15 p.m. Ms. Wilhelm left a little earlier this evening.
The next regular meeting is scheduled for March 12, 2009, 7:00 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Patricia I. Chieski
Recording Secretary
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