HOLLAND, MI (WHTC) – Although no decision has been made, the framework for having an outside contractor operate Holland’s 8th Street Marketplace next year, which includes the successful Holland Farmers Market, could be in place tonight.
During this evening’s business meeting, City Council members will be asked to formally approve having such an entity administer the Marketplace, as well as recommend the Mayor and Deputy City Clerk to execute an agreement that will be drawn up by the City Attorney. Two entities – the Holland Area Visitors Bureau and Visser Farms – along with local resident Edward Morales have submitted proposals to operate the facility for up to 75 thousand dollars, which is the amount the city has allocated for 2017. An option for extending the contract through 2018 is also available.
The Farmers Market Advisory Committee will conduct due diligence interviews and meetings with all three hopefuls before making a recommendation; Council is expected to appoint an administrator at its next business meeting on October 5th.
The city decided to seek an outside operator for the Marketplace and Farmers Market after it was learned earlier this summer that current Market Master Candy Todd and Market Assistant Judy Laidler will both retire at the end of this current market season. Officials opted not to seek permanent replacements for the moment with the Civic Center slated for renovation, and they also didn’t want to add their duties to current staffers.
