DATE: April 28, 2025
TO: Members of the Economic Development Authority
FROM: Nate Carlson, Economic Development Coordinator
Title
Riverwalk Market Fair 2025 Pre-Season Presentation
Body
Action Report:
The EDA Board shall receive a presentation from the Riverwalk Market Fair and a request for additional funding.
Summary Report:
The start-of-season report is a requirement by the Riverwalk Market Fair in the current contract (attached).
Additionally, the Riverwalk Market Fair supports the Local Food Purchasing Agreement program. However, federal funding for this program has been cut following recent action by the Executive Branch, a cut that impacts the second half of the summers program. Riverwalk Market Fair remains committed to continuing similar work under the Farm to Families program. In order to support this program, there is a need for the EDA to provide an additional $5,000 this year. The Riverwalk Market Fair team plans to raise the rest of the funds needed in order to generate the $10,000 needed to fund this program for the remaining time in the 2025 season. Fundraising efforts are planned and include an event in July to raise more awareness.
Staff recommends the EDA Board make a motion to amend the current contract with Riverwalk Market Fair to provide $5,000 in additional financial support.
Alternative Options:
The EDA Board may take any alternative options decided by the board.
Financial Impacts:
The EDA Board has approved a budget of $30,000 to support the Riverwalk Market Fair for 2025.
Tentative Timeline:
The Riverwalk Market Fair board shall make another presentation to the EDA in fall 2025. The current contract expires December 31, 2025.