Coldstream’s farmers market has cropped up a state of flux.
Market organizer Anita Fletcher informed the District of Coldstream Wednesday morning that she is no longer involved. Therefore when it came time for the weekly market to start later that afternoon, the vendors were without direction.
Unsure of the process due to recent bylaw changes for Cenotaph Park, several vendors set up in front of the Women’s Institute Hall.
“There was nothing going on at the Women’s Institute,” said Samantha Mason, a vendor.
But that got them in some hot water.
A bylaw officer approached the vendors to inform them that they were not in compliance.
“He was threatening us and saying he was going to start issuing tickets if we weren’t out of there by 4:15,” said Mason, who had plants and flowers all over and knew she couldn’t pack everything up in time.
The District of Coldstream defends its actions.
“They were in violation of our bylaws,” said Trevor Seibel, Coldstream’s chief administrative officer, adding: “There were no tickets issued and there was no intention of issuing tickets.”
Seibel explains that like food trucks, the vendors cannot just set up and start selling items, they must have proper permissions.
Recent bylaw changes were made for Cenotaph Park, which the market used last summer, to ensure a proper process could be followed.
“By going through the rent and rental agreement that will take care of that for them,” said Seibel.
The rent for the park is $44 for the day.
“You can’t just set up in a park and start selling products, you have to have the approval and proper paperwork.”
Fletcher’s decision to leave the market follows five years of managing the operation, including location troubles and perceived conflict of interest issues since she is married to Coun. Richard Enns.
“It has been more of a hindrance than a positive that I started and maintained the existence of the market,” said Fletcher.
“Nonetheless, I am glad to have had the wonderful relationships with the local farmers/producers, and the community individuals who regularly supported the market these last five years.”
But Fletcher isn’t sure what will become of the market.
“I don’t think anyone will light a torch and carry it for the market.”
